Clément Hervieu-Léger Appointed Administrator of the Comédie-Française
Paris, France – Renowned actor, director, and Comédie-Française alumnus Clément Hervieu-Léger has been named the new Administrator of the Comédie-Française, France’s prestigious national theater. The appointment was announced on Wednesday, February 19th, by the Ministry of Culture.
Hervieu-Léger, 48, will assume his duties in August 2025, succeeding Éric Ruf, who has held the post since 2014. The nomination was made "on the proposal of Rachida Dati," and he will be entrusted with the leadership of the theater by the President, according to the Ministry.
A Distinguished Career in Theater
A member of the Comédie-Française troupe since 2005 and a full member since 2018, Hervieu-Léger has established himself as both a versatile actor and a talented director.
As an actor, he has played a wide range of roles, including Robespierre in Georg Büchner’s "La Mort de Danton" and Dorante in Molière’s "Le Bourgeois gentilhomme." Off-stage, he founded the Compagnie des Petits Champs in 2010 with Daniel San Pedro, through which he has presented his own directorial projects.
A Mission of Renewal and Expansion
As Administrator General, Hervieu-Léger will be responsible for "pursuing the influence of France’s leading theatrical institution, both artistically and in terms of audience development," as stated in the Ministry’s press release.
His mandate includes preserving and expanding the theater’s current repertoire, promoting touring and audiovisual productions, and developing audience outreach initiatives targeting young people and those who may be less familiar with theater.
Major Renovation Projects
Hervieu-Léger will also oversee significant restoration and renovation projects at the Comédie-Française’s various venues, including upgrades to infrastructure, energy efficiency improvements, and accessibility enhancements.
Tribute to Éric Ruf’s Legacy
The Ministry of Culture acknowledged the successful tenure of outgoing Administrator Éric Ruf, who has "impelled a dynamic of openness at the Comédie-Française to new talent" in programming and repertoire, "facilitated a strong development of patronage," "led a concerted effort on gender equality," and expanded the theater’s digital presence.
Anticipation for the Future
The Comédie-Française and the wider theater community eagerly await Hervieu-Léger’s arrival. His appointment is seen as a testament to his artistic vision, leadership abilities, and passion for theater. As he embarks on this new chapter, Hervieu-Léger is expected to guide the Comédie-Française into an exciting and transformative era, cementing its status as a bastion of French theatrical excellence and a beacon of cultural enlightenment.
