You’d think having a son high up in production would come with a few perks, but Hollywood legend Leslie Caron revealed there was no favouritism on the set of The Durrells when she worked alongside her son and grandson.
Speaking to What’s on TV, Leslie explained why she loved the fact three generations of her family worked together on ITV’s hit Sunday night drama: “I’m absolutely thrilled. It was just so comfortable and pleasant to do scenes where my grandson (Ben Hall, who plays lovesick Donald) was acting… And my son (Christopher Hall) was the producer so I knew I couldn’t ask for any favouritism, and I didn’t!
French-born Leslie, 84, was a famous ballerina when she was spotted one night by Gene Kelly, and went on to star in iconic musical movies An American in Paris and Gigi. Talking about the life-changing moment, Leslie said she puts it down to luck and a daring one-piece outfit.
“I think I was 17 and Gene Kelly was there on the opening night when I was given my first role in the ballet. The ballet was very successful and all the press was in a great big hullaballoo.
“I was dancing with one whole white suit... It looked like I was naked except for a tiny little thing on my hips! It just was quite spectacular. After that, he asked me to be his partner for An American In Paris which was the biggest film of the year. So you have to call it luck!”
For our full interview with Leslie Caron watch the video, above.
Leslie stars as Countess Mavrodaki in The Durrells on ITV at 8pm on Sunday
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