‘Gilmore Girls’ Alum Yanic Truesdale on Why His French ‘Étoile’ Character Doesn’t Have an Accent

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Fans of Gilmore Girls would likely recognize Yanic Truesdale in the show Étoile, yet they may find it surprising when his character in the new series begins talking, due to a change in their dialogue.

The actor who portrayed Michel, the frequently annoyed concierge at the Independence (and later Dragonfly) Inn on “Gilmore Girls,” is working with creators Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino again in their new show titled “Étoile“. In this series, he takes on the role of Raphael, who serves as Charlotte Gainsbourg’s Geneviève’s right-hand man.

Despite the fact that Raphael, Truesdale’s new character, hails from France, unlike Michel who adopted a French accent, Raphael speaks without any discernible accent. This deliberate decision was made by Truesdale, as he explains, in a swift manner.

Unlike his previous character Michel, who spoke with a French accent, Raphael, the latest addition to Truesdale’s cast, does not have an accent. This conscious choice was quickly made by Truesdale.

Or for a more casual tone:

Michel, one of Truesdale’s characters, had a French accent. But Raphael, his new guy, doesn’t. That was on purpose and Truesdale decided it fast.

At the premiere of Étoile in New York this month, Truesdale shared with The Hollywood Reporter: “That was my first role,” he said. When Amy offered it to me and mentioned that it’s filmed in Paris, I was thrilled. I asked if the character is French, and she confirmed yes. However, I immediately expressed my reluctance to do a French accent, fearing fan confusion and wanting to create a unique character unlike Michel. So, indeed, no French accent for me.

Truesdale added that he used his “natural” speaking voice for Raphael.

The performer, expressing joy over reconnecting with the Palladinos, elaborated by stating that collaborating on the show Gilmore Girls led to an enduring, family-like relationship.

For the past two decades, Amy has been my mom to me because she nurtured the artistic side of my life in America. That’s why she calls me son, and she often tells me, ‘You’re the best son I could’ve ever hoped for, as I didn’t have to raise you.’ This bond provides a sense of comfort and family that we share.

I believe that our work together on Gilmore Girls resonated with everyone involved, including Amy and Lauren. They crafted a show that continues to thrive, even 25 years later. I think we all feel deeply connected and at ease. It’s as if we are family. We don’t always need words – a glance is enough, and I know instantly that she feels the same.

For this position, Truesdale mentioned that the Palladinos contacted him expressing their consideration of him for the series.

He remembers thinking, “Where was I last? What task was I engaged in? Was I free at that moment?” To which he replied, “I’d be at your service.”

the person is recalling where they were, what they were doing, and whether or not they were available at that time, and stating that they had offered their availability.

All eight episodes of Étoile‘s first season are now streaming on Amazon’s Prime Video.

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2025-05-01 06:24