Exclusive Interview: Jean Brassard Talks The Fault In Our Stars

Jean Brassard is part of the sweet cinema smash Fault on our Stars. We recently had the opportunity to speak to the actor (and musician) about his work in what’s undoubtedly one of the more realistic teen romance movies in recent times. Read on to learn more.


BGG AFTER DARK: Why do you believe The Fault in Our Stars is doing so well? What is it about the story that’s capturing the hearts of cinemagoers?

JEAN BRASSARD: I think it’s doing so well because it addresses some real life issues and especially for young people. The movie manages to capture the hearts of teenagers and young adults which are more open and often more in touch with their feelings than adults. They seem to have a bigger propensity for dreaming and live with their ideals too. And I think the adults see this film and reconnect with that part of themselves, that time in their life. And then there is also the parent-child relationship that is very present in there, particularly well illustrated in the rapport between Hazel (Shailene’s character) and her mom played by Laura Dern. I think a lot of parents can relate whether it be about cancer or any other concerns they may have about their child’s wellbeing and future. And even more generally anyone who has had to deal with losing a loved one can relate to the film. So that’s a lot of people already. And there are all the folks who just love a romantic movie!

BGG AFTER DARK: Were you familiar with the book before you signed on?

JEAN BRASSARD: Not being a young adult myself, it was not on my radar.

BGG AFTER DARK: Having not read the book, is your character played as is in the book?

JEAN BRASSARD: Yes, very much so. I know that it was one of Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber main goals when they adapted the book for the screen, to remain as faithful as possible to John’s story and vision.

BGG AFTER DARK: How long of a shoot, for you, was it?

JEAN BRASSARD: Only one day. That’s how long it took to shoot the restaurant scene in which Augustus (Ansel Elgort) declares his love for Hazel and I get to make sure their dinner is the best they ever had. And it was a wonderful day for me to share this scene with them and Josh Boone’s team.

BGG AFTER DARK: You didn’t appear in any scenes with him, but did you have a chance to meet Willem Dafoe?

JEAN BRASSARD: He seems like he’d be a very interesting person to cross paths with. I did not get to meet Willem Dafoe. I totally agree. I hope we do meet in the near future. I’m a fan.

BGG AFTER DARK: You’re an actor but also a musician. What’s the first love?

JEAN BRASSARD: I have many loves. Acting, singing, writing being the main ones professionally –and oh, audiobooks too. At this juncture in my life, singing and writing songs is what I enjoy the most. My dad was a musician though not on a professional level, so I’ve always felt that connection. You can actually hear me sing some wonderful French songs on my CD “Le gamin de Paris”, excerpts from my tribute show to the French star Yves Montand, co-written with and directed by David Krueger. 

To learn more, visit the official Jean Brassard  and The Fault In Our Stars website.