A question floats in the Parisian air: Who was Pierre Tchernia and why does this esplanade bear his name? This is the Esplanade Pierre Tchernia. It is more than just a place. It is a tribute to a man who shaped French television and cinema.
Pierre Tchernia was born Pierre Tscherniakowsky in Paris in 1928. His father was a Russian engineer. His mother was a French seamstress. Pierre grew up with a love for cinema.
He frequented the Magic Ciné in Levallois-Perret. This shaped his career. He graduated from IDHEC film school in 1948. There he met Claude Sautet.
Tchernia’s career started with a theater tour in Germany. Soon he joined French broadcasting. He helped create the first televised news in 1949. He worked alongside Pierre Dumayet and Georges de Caunes.
“Monsieur Cinéma” was his nickname. He earned it by presenting a TV show of the same name. It started in 1967. Tchernia was a pioneer. He was one of the first faces on French television.
He hosted the Eurovision Song Contest many times. He also presented L’Ami public numéro un. This show featured Disney productions. SVP Disney was another creation. It let young viewers choose film clips.
Tchernia’s talents extended beyond hosting. He wrote and directed many films. Le Viager and Les Gaspards are among his most famous. Michel Serrault often starred in them.
He collaborated with René Goscinny on Asterix films. He wrote screenplays and narrated many of them. Tchernia even appeared in Astérix et Obélix: Mission Cléopâtre. He played Caius Gaspachoandalus.
His connection to Asterix led to a fun tribute. He was caricatured in several Asterix albums. This cemented his place in popular culture.
Tchernia’s impact was recognized with honors. He became a Commandeur of the Legion of Honor. He also received the Vermeil Medal from the City of Paris.
Pierre Tchernia died in 2016. He was 88 years old. He left behind a rich legacy in French entertainment. This esplanade ensures his memory lives on. It reminds us of his contributions to film and television.
So next time you are here take a moment. Remember Pierre Tchernia. “Monsieur Cinéma” brought joy to generations of viewers. He deserves this Parisian tribute.