French Singer Nicole Croisille Dies Aged 88 Following Long Illness

Nicole Croisille, the renowned French singer and actress famous for her iconic "chabadabada" refrain in the 1966 film A Man and a Woman, passed away in Paris at the age of 88 after a long illness. Her career, spanning over six decades, encompassed music, dance, film, and theater, and she remained active on stage well into her 80s. Croisille's work with director Claude Lelouch and composers Francis Lai and Pierre Barouh produced a timeless soundtrack that deeply marked French cinema and music, earning her accolades including the prize for "most beautiful voice" in 1975. In addition to her international fame, she was beloved in France for hits like "Telephone-moi," "Parlez-moi de lui," and "Une femme avec toi," and was celebrated for her passion for jazz, musicals, and her talents as a dancer and actress. Claude Lelouch described her as a muse, friend, and the voice of his life, while the French Minister of Culture praised her versatility and lasting influence. Despite her illness, Croisille fought with courage and continued to perform until recent years, leaving behind a legacy cherished by many.