Emotion was palpable at the Coupole of the Père-Lachaise cemetery. Friends, family, and figures from the world of culture gathered for the funeral of Isabelle Mergault, who succumbed to lung cancer on March 20, a battle she kept secret. The ceremony saw personalities close to the creator of “Grosses Têtes”, including Laurent Ruquier – one of the few aware of her illness – Michèle Bernier, Christine Bravo, with her husband Stéphane Bachot, and former “Loft Story” contestant Steevy Boulay.
One of the most touching moments of the morning was undoubtedly when Maya, her adopted daughter, spoke. With remarkable dignity, the teenager paid tribute to the woman who took her under her wing fifteen years ago. “My mother was kindness. She was a caring, friendly woman who always listened. With her, I could say anything. I could tell her about my life without filters, without fear. And even when I said nothing, she knew. She felt when I wasn’t well,” she said during the ceremony. It was a painful moment for the young girl who, along with her younger sister Iris, found support from a man who played a significant role in Isabelle Mergault’s life: Choukri Gabteni.
Choukri Gabteni: Isabelle Mergault’s ex was very present before her death
During the discreet ceremony, Choukri Gabteni, who stood by Maya and Iris the entire time, was very present in Isabelle Mergault’s final months. Christine Bravo revealed in an interview with Gala: “He is a wonderful man who was very close to her, very close, about twenty years ago. He was there for her when they were no longer a couple. He stayed with her from morning to night for six months,” until her last breath at the Ambroise-Paré hospital in Neuilly-sur-Seine.
Choukri Gabteni, a professional actor, appeared in notable films such as “La Haine” by Mathieu Kassovitz, where he played Saïd’s brother. He also starred in two films directed by Isabelle Mergault, “Je vous trouve très beau” (2006) and “Enfin veuve” (2008). Although they had split, they still maintained a connection.
What future lies ahead for Maya and Iris after Isabelle Mergault’s passing?
The future of Maya (17 years old) and Iris (12 years old) is now at the forefront of concerns. While Isabelle Mergault joked with her best friend Jean-Louis Barcelona on her deathbed by suggesting he “marry” her to take care of them, the reality is more complex. Jean-Louis Barcelona clarified that it was just banter, as he believed he did not have the suitable lifestyle to take on that responsibility.
However, the two young girls are not alone. Not only is there a strong support network around them, but as Jean-Louis Barcelona pointed out, Maya and Iris also have their biological parents. This precious support will be crucial for them during this undoubtedly difficult time.
