Simon Ehrlacher transitioned from a successful acting career to focus on jiu-jitsu before returning to television in 2021 as Dr. Romain Vidal in Plus belle la vie. His character faced personal challenges, including a diagnosis of Huntington’s disease and complex romantic relationships. After the show’s conclusion, Simon landed roles in Disney+’s Irresistible and the series Escort Boys. He will also appear in the upcoming TF1 event series Cat’s Eyes, set to premiere on November 11.
Simon Ehrlacher’s Journey: From Jiu-Jitsu to Acting
After a stellar debut in the youth series Coeur Océan and gaining recognition in Canal+’s hit show Les Revenants, Simon Ehrlacher chose to step back from the limelight to immerse himself in the world of jiu-jitsu. He not only practiced this martial art at a professional level but also took on the role of a teacher.
Fast forward nearly a decade to 2021, Simon made a remarkable return to television by joining the cast of the popular soap opera Plus belle la vie on France 3. His portrayal of Dr. Romain Vidal quickly captured the attention of viewers and significantly revitalized his acting career.
The Charismatic Dr. Romain Vidal
Entering in the show’s 17th season, Simon Ehrlacher’s character, the charismatic Dr. Romain Vidal, became a central figure in a summer storyline that saw several characters stranded on a deserted island. Upon returning to Marseille, Romain learns he has Huntington’s disease, prompting a drastic shift in his life. In his romantic escapades, the “Dr. Mamour” of Mistral navigates a complicated love life, leaving his wife, becoming involved with Victoire (played by Flavie Péan), and eventually embarking on a whimsical romance with Fanny (Prudence Leroy) and even Adriana Karembeu, who plays herself, reminiscent of the film Notting Hill.
However, in a surprising twist, Plus belle la vie concluded its 18-year run in November 2022, only to be revived by TF1 in a new iteration titled Plus belle la vie, encore plus belle, which does not feature Romain Vidal.
Reflecting on his time in the show, Simon shared, “They reignited the flame and the desire to act in me. I always had it inside, but life made me focus on other things. Returning to the set freed me, and now I am eager to act again. They opened a beautiful door for me.”
Exciting New Projects Ahead
Following his time in Plus belle la vie, Simon quickly secured a role in Irresistible, a feel-good dramedy produced by Disney+ in 2023. Created by Clémence Madeleine-Perdrillat, this series follows a podcast creator who falls for a mathematician, struggling with panic attacks triggered by past trauma. Simon plays Laurent, one of the romantic interests in this engaging narrative.
Additionally, he was cast in the series Escort Boys, directed by Ruben Alves, alongside actors like Guillaume Labbé and Corentin Fila. This six-episode series, set against the stunning backdrop of Camargue, explores deeper themes while maintaining a light-hearted tone, featuring guest appearances from notable actresses such as Amanda Lear and Carole Bouquet.
While there is no official announcement yet for a second season of Escort Boys, fans can look forward to seeing Simon in the highly anticipated TF1 event series, Cat’s Eyes, launching on November 11 at 9:10 PM. This live-action adaptation of the beloved 1980s manga features Simon as Sylia’s boyfriend and showcases a thrilling plot revolving around three sisters reunited in Paris as they embark on a daring heist. With a star-studded cast, including the likes of Carole Bouquet and Élodie Fontan, this project promises to be an exciting addition to Simon’s growing repertoire.