Michel Biel On Skam France, His Acting Journey, And The Art Of Storytelling

Michel Biel, born on August 19, 1993, is a French-Polish actor who has carved out a remarkable career in both television and film. He first captured the hearts of audiences with his breakout role as Charles Munier in the wildly popular series Skam France (2017).

As Charles, Biel delivered a performance brimming with emotional complexity, portraying a young man grappling with love, loss, and self-discovery. His ability to bring such authenticity to the role struck a chord with viewers, cementing Charles Munier as one of the most memorable characters in the series and marking a pivotal moment in Biel’s career.

IMAGE: FAYE MARTIN

Since his Skam France days, Biel has steadily built an impressive international resume. He appeared in Christopher Nolan’s war epic Dunkirk (2018) and later joined the glamorous world of Netflix’s Emily in Paris (2020).

In 2022, he took on one of his most physically demanding roles to date as JP in the British thriller Summit Fever, a project that required him to undergo rigorous training to convincingly portray the grueling realities of high-altitude climbing.

In this interview, Biel reflected on his journey, particularly the profound impact Skam France had on his career. He spoke candidly about the challenges and rewards of bringing complex characters to life, as well as his commitment to authenticity in every role he takes on. It’s this dedication to his craft, paired with his willingness to push boundaries, that continues to inspire both fans and fellow artists.

Michel Biel’s career is a testament to his versatility and relentless drive. Whether he’s in front of the camera or scaling a mountain for a role, one thing is clear: he’s an artist who thrives on challenge and creativity. We’re grateful for the opportunity to hear his story and look forward to seeing where his talent takes him next. Thank you, Michel, for sharing your journey with us!

1. What was it about the role of Charles Munier in Skam France that resonated with you most as an actor?

Charles Munier’s character in Skam France was incredibly compelling because of the emotional complexity and transformation he undergoes throughout the series. What resonated with me most was his vulnerability paired with his internal struggle.

On the surface, he might seem like the typical “bad boy,” but as the story unfolds, you realize the layers of pain, insecurity, and longing that shape him. That kind of emotional depth, where you’re constantly navigating different facets of a character’s psyche, is a treasure for any actor. It was a challenge, but also a unique opportunity to explore such a multi-dimensional character.

2. How did you prepare for the emotional depth and complexity of Charles’s character arc?

Preparation for Charles required a balance of introspection and external research. I spent a lot of time understanding the emotional triggers and the motivations behind his actions—why he pushes people away despite clearly needing love and connection. I worked closely with the director and scriptwriters to understand the subtleties of his development.

Emotional preparation was key, and that meant reflecting on my own experiences, but also connecting deeply with the humanity of someone who feels torn between fear and desire. I also sought out discussions with psychologists to understand some of the more specific emotional dynamics, as it’s important to make the internal struggles as real as possible.

3. What impact did Skam France have on your career, and how did you handle the sudden attention from fans?

Skam France was a pivotal moment in my career. The show’s global reach and resonance with young audiences was incredible, and it provided a platform for me to showcase my craft to an international audience. As for handling the attention, I’ve always tried to stay grounded. It’s humbling, of course, but I’ve learned that the work comes first.

I’ve always prioritized staying connected to the creative process and keeping the focus on the art, not the fame. Fans are incredibly important, and I cherish their support, but it’s essential to maintain a healthy boundary to keep growing as both an actor and a person.

4. You played a physically demanding role in Summit Fever. What was the most challenging part of preparing for that performance?

The physical demands of Summit Fever were intense, but they were part of what made the role so exciting. The most challenging part was the sheer endurance required—not just physically, but mentally. Climbing, handling the elements, and performing under those conditions is a challenge in itself.

But I also had to integrate the emotional journey of my character, who faces fear, isolation, and self-doubt in extreme circumstances. It was a deep dive into both physical and psychological endurance. I worked closely with trainers, mountaineers, and even therapists to prepare, ensuring that I was in top physical form while maintaining the emotional focus necessary for the role.

5. With your international experience in acting, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to aspiring performers looking to expand?

My advice would be to stay curious and always be willing to learn, not only about your craft but also about the world around you. Acting is a journey of constant growth, and the more you understand different cultures, emotions, and perspectives, the more depth you bring to your performances.

Don’t shy away from opportunities that might seem daunting or outside your comfort zone. The diversity of experiences is what shapes a truly versatile actor. Embrace challenges, stay disciplined, and most importantly, remain

IMAGE: EDO BRUGÉ

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