French crooner Sacha Distel, famed for his string of hits in the 1960s and '70s and high-profile romance with sex symbol Brigitte Bardot, has passed away aged 71.
Sacha, who became a household name around the world in the years after his 1958 smash Scoubidou, died at a family home on the Cote D'Azur after a long illness.
The heart-throb had more than 200 songs under his belt, including a famous cover version of Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head. Other career highlights included his own programme on French TV during the 1960s, and his 1997 acceptance of the Chevalier de la Legion d'Honeur for his contribution to French music.
In addition to being a popular figure in his native country, he also considered Britain a second home. He was a regular figure on British TV, including appearances on a diverse range of programmes, from Morecambe And Wise to Absolutely Fabulous, often spoofing his larger-than-life reputation as a Gallic charmer. In 2000, he made his West End debut, playing lead role of Billy Flynn in the stage musical Chicago.
Among those paying tribute to the legendary singer was French President Jacques Chirac, who mourned "the passing of one of the greatest French artists". Singer Amanda Lear also had fond words for Sacha, saying: "Everywhere, he was a star. Everywhere in the world, Sacha was the symbol of the French romantic."
The legendary music star was happily married to former championship skier Francine Breaud for 41 years. In line with his last wishes, Sacha will be buried in France at a private funeral attended by family and close friends this Saturday. |
)
)
