Casting underway in Marseille for Johnny Hallyday biopic
Casting is underway in Marseille and the Camargue for extras aged 16 to 88 to appear in a major biopic about Johnny Hallyday, directed by Cédric Jimenez and set to begin filming in summer 2026.
A major biopic about French rock legend Johnny Hallyday is set to begin filming soon, with casting now open for extras in Marseille and the surrounding region.
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The film, reportedly titled “Johnny”, will be directed by Cédric Jimenez, the Marseille-born filmmaker behind hits such as BAC Nord and November.
Production is expected to start in summer 2026, with several scenes planned in Marseille and the Camargue, as well as other locations including Paris, Spain and Jamaica.
Hundreds of extras wanted
The production team is currently looking for men and women aged 16 to 88 living in southern France to appear as background performers.
Extras will help recreate the atmosphere of the 1960s through to the 1990s, the decades during which Johnny Hallyday became one of France’s biggest music stars.
Applicants are encouraged to have a look that fits the era, such as natural hairstyles, vintage cuts, moustaches for men, and retro styles for women.
Selected participants will take part in costume fittings to match the different periods portrayed in the film.
A major film project
The biopic aims to retrace Johnny Hallyday’s life and career, from his early years in the 1960s to his rise as a national icon with a career spanning more than five decades.
Filming is expected to take place in August, and applications for the casting call are open until 29 May.
The film is reportedly targeting a 2027 release, marking ten years since the singer’s death in 2017.