In 1994, the film “Gazon Maudit” was released in cinemas. Victoria Abril, Alain Chabat, and Josiane Balasko are the main stars of this hilarious film. It tells the story of Laurent and Loli, a bourgeois couple leading a happy life in the south of France. They encounter Marijo, a woman whose camper breaks down in front of their house. They help her and get to know each other. Laurent and Marijo then discover common ground, particularly their love for women.
The film was a huge success, attracting 4 million viewers in theaters. Josiane Balasko and Patrick Aubrée won the César for best original screenplay. A significant film for Josiane Balasko’s career, but also for her daughter, Marilou Berry. At the time, Marilou Berry was only eleven years old and was subjected to harassment because of the film.
Context: “Gazon Maudit” was a successful French film released in 1994 starring Victoria Abril, Alain Chabat, and Josiane Balasko.
Fact Check: Josiane Balasko and Patrick Aubrée did win the César award for best original screenplay for their work on “Gazon Maudit.”
Students and teachers bullied Marilou Berry because of “Gazon Maudit”
The portrayal of homosexuality in the film sparked controversy upon its release. It left a lasting impact but also stirred up trouble. Marilou Berry experienced this firsthand. At school, Josiane Balasko’s daughter faced the consequences of homophobia. Speaking on the podcast “Boustifaille” on April 12, 2026, Marilou Berry recalled the hardships she endured because of the film. Her classmates did not spare her: “It’s complicated at school during that period because it’s all about: ‘Your mother, she’s a lesbian’.”
Not only students, but also Marilou Berry’s teachers made her pay the price for her mother’s film’s open-mindedness. She remembers the transition from attending a Montessori school to a much stricter boarding school: “It was a big disaster. I was hated by all the teachers who couldn’t stand me.”
Fact Check: Marilou Berry opened up about facing bullying at school due to the portrayal of homosexuality in her mother’s film.
Marilou Berry shares a special bond with Josiane Balasko
While these memories still haunt Marilou Berry, the actress maintains a close relationship with her mother. She cherishes the special moments they share, on stage and in everyday life. In January 2026, she expressed her deep desire to work with her mother. Currently, the actress is performing at Bouffes Parisiens with her mother in the play “That’s Love.” It is a true delight for Marilou Berry: “I wanted to work in the theater, with my mother, because it’s a pleasure and we have never worked in the theater together… What better role for us both to play mother and daughter!” she shared on “C à vous”. Proof that Marilou Berry and Josiane Balasko are inseparable.
Context: Marilou Berry reveals her strong bond with her mother and their collaboration in theater.
Fact Check: Marilou Berry expressed her desire to work with her mother in a joint theater production.
