At 76, French actress Josiane Balasko recently discussed the complexities of adopting her son, Rudy, in an interview with the podcast 'La Conversation' on November 11, 2026. Balasko, who has been married for over 25 years to American actor George Aguilar, previously shared her life with sculptor Philippe Berry, with whom she had two children: daughter Marilou Berry, now 43, and Rudy, now 38. Unlike her biological daughter, Rudy was adopted through the French public child welfare services (DDASS) at the age of three. [1]
Balasko highlighted that integrating Rudy into the family was not seamless. With Marilou being eight years old at the time, the five-year age gap meant that Rudy’s arrival disrupted the existing family dynamic. The actress openly admitted that sibling jealousy was present, noting, 'There was jealousy, thinking he would take my place. I think it is logical, it is normal. It is not automatically a fairy tale.' She emphasized that adoption requires patience and a long process of recognition, stating, 'It is not easy. Because it is a long recognition, a long journey together.' [1]
Reflecting on the emotional challenges of adoption, Balasko explained that adopted children often question their identity regardless of their age at adoption. She assured that she never internalized her son's struggles during his formative years. Before bringing Rudy home, the boy lived with foster care since he was one year old. Balasko recalled seeing his photo and falling in love immediately, contrasting the experience of adoption with pregnancy: 'The child is all made. He is already made, we no longer have to make him.' Today, at 38, Rudy has chosen a career far from the entertainment industry, working as a sports coach. [1]
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