Judith Godrèche (born March 23, 1972) is a French actress and author, born in Paris, France.
Godrèche's early work included commercial modeling for a Japanese chocolate maker, as well as a teen magazine. Her first film appearance was as Claudia Cardinale's daughter in "L'été prochain". At age 14 she obtained her first major role in Benoît Jacquot's "Les Mendiants" with Dominique Sanda.
In 1989, Godrèche starred in Jacques Doillon's "La Fille de 15 ans" with Melvil Poupaud, which brought her fame. The following year, she turned to a full-time career in film. In 1990 she was nominated for the César Award for Most Promising Actress for her performance in Jacquot's "La Désenchantée".
In 1994 her novel "Point de côté" was published in France by Broché Publishers to good reviews.
Godrèche was not well-known to American audiences until Patrice Leconte's "Ridicule" was released in 1996. The film introduced her to Americans in the role of Mathilde de Bellegarde. In 1997 she starred with Leonardo DiCaprio and Jeremy Irons in "The Man in the Iron Mask". Her fans consider her beauty an example of "innocent sensuality".
Godrèche was nominated for a 2002 César Award for best supporting actress for her performance in the surprise European hit, "L'Auberge espagnole".
