A Life of Love, Art and Intrigue

Why do you enjoy being in France?

I like being in France because I’m a stranger. I don’t have to understand everything. It’s like being on a train, opening the windows, shrieking about naked, and then pulling the shutter down—you’re gone, and no one can catch you. That feeling is freeing. It’s like I never fully arrive at the destination, and I quite like that.

You’ve become a household name here. How has Paris influenced your career?

Paris was the last place I thought I’d ever succeed. I saw it as a place for sexy bombshells and vamps, which I never thought I could be. But somehow, things clicked. A few months ago, three of my films were playing simultaneously in the Champs-Élysées. It’s surreal—a storybook success, really, especially since it’s happened in another country.

Your personal life has also captured the public’s imagination. Can you tell us about your relationship with Serge Gainsbourg?

Serge is fascinating—intensely creative and brilliant. We live together in his very stylized apartment on the Left Bank. It’s a mix of black, wicked charm, and constant inspiration. Of course, being with someone like Serge has its challenges. Beautiful women are always coming around for songs. Sometimes I get jealous, even of his past. But then I remind myself that he’s been through so much and knows what he wants now.

You haven’t married Serge, but you’ve been in a serious partnership. Why not take the leap?

Somehow, living with someone feels more… uncertain, in an exciting way. It’s not a given, and you don’t take things for granted. There are moments when I think it would be fun to rush off and get married. But I’ve seen how things can change after that first year. I love how things are now, and I don’t want them to evolve into something less.

What’s it like working in French cinema?

Jane Birkin: Most of my roles have been as slightly clumsy, slightly lost English girls caught up in the underworld—parts petite French girls wouldn’t even attempt. I feel there’s something unique about me here, a bit of awkwardness that works. My French is simple, school-girl level, but the accent seems to charm the pop stations.

You’ve faced controversy, especially with the success of “Je t’aime… moi non plus.” How do you feel about it now?

The controversy was a surprise. It was banned by the Vatican but still became a number-one hit in France. At the time, I thought it was so romantic. People said it was pornographic, but that’s ridiculous. There are far more shocking things than that.

Paris has a glamorous, sophisticated nightlife. Do you feel at home in it?

Being a star here does open doors to exclusive places, like Chez Régine’s. It’s all very glamorous, but sometimes I miss England. It’s lovely to speak English and have easy conversations. At the core, I’m still very English.

What drives you in your personal and professional life?

It’s about keeping things fresh and meaningful. I don’t want life or love to lose their spark. Whether it’s acting, singing, or just being with Serge, I want to keep that magic alive.