Bernard Pivot Quotes

Powerful Bernard Pivot for Daily Growth

About Bernard Pivot

Bernard Pivot (born March 14, 1949) is a French-American journalist, television host, and actor, best known for his work as the original host of the popular interview program 'Inside the Actors Studio' from 1994 to 2018. Born in Paris, France, Pivot grew up in a family deeply rooted in the world of art and literature. His father, Jean Pivot, was a renowned sculptor, and his mother, Geneviève Cluny, was an accomplished painter. This artistic environment greatly influenced Bernard's early life and career choices. Pivot moved to the United States at the age of 19 to study acting at the American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco. His first major break came in 1972 when he joined the cast of the popular daytime soap opera 'Search for Tomorrow'. He later transitioned to hosting roles, beginning with a French-language program on New York's public television station WNET in 1976. In 1985, Pivot created and hosted the French language cultural interview show 'Apostrophes', which ran until 2013. His success in France led to an invitation to host 'Inside the Actors Studio' at the New School for Public Engagement in New York City. The show, known for its unique format of in-depth interviews with actors, directors, and writers, quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Pivot is also recognized for his work as a screenwriter, playwright, and actor in both French and English productions. His writing credits include the film 'Le Jumeau' and plays such as 'The Actor's Nightmare' and 'The Dumb Waiter'. Throughout his career, Pivot has been honored with numerous awards, including three Emmy Awards for 'Inside the Actors Studio', and the prestigious Legion of Honor award from the French government. His enduring impact on both French and American culture makes him a truly unique figure in the world of journalism and entertainment.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The interview is the conversation between equals."

This quote by Bernard Pivot emphasizes that in an interview, both parties - the interviewee and the interviewer - are on equal footing. It implies mutual respect, open communication, and a collaborative exchange of ideas or information. The tone of the conversation is not one-sided or dominated by the interviewer; rather, it encourages active participation from both sides, fostering a more genuine and insightful dialogue.

"Style is a very simple thing: it's all in the choices you make."

Bernard Pivot's quote underscores that an individual's style, be it in art, fashion, writing or behavior, arises from the conscious or subconscious decisions one makes when expressing oneself. It suggests that a distinct and personal style is not inherent but rather developed through the choices one makes over time, making every unique style a reflection of its creator's values, preferences, and experiences.

"You don't choose your passions; your passions choose you."

This quote emphasizes that our passions are not something we consciously decide, but rather they are innate traits or interests that naturally captivate us. It suggests that our passions are deeply personal and often cannot be explained or chosen rationally; instead, they reveal themselves to us over time as things that we become deeply invested in and motivated by. This perspective encourages individuals to follow their hearts and pursue their passions, as they are an integral part of who we are and what drives us in life.

"In acting, there are no small parts, only small actors."

This quote by Bernard Pivot emphasizes that every role in acting, regardless of its size or significance, has equal potential to contribute to a performance's success. The implication is that a skilled actor can make even the smallest part memorable, while an underdeveloped talent may struggle with larger roles. It also suggests that true professionals recognize and value each opportunity to grow and learn in their craft, instead of considering certain parts beneath them.

"The key to a long life is to enjoy every minute of it. That is my secret formula for living."

Bernard Pivot's quote suggests that the secret to a long life is finding joy in each moment. This means embracing life fully, appreciating its fleeting nature, and making the most of every experience. In essence, it's about cherishing life and living it to the fullest, which can contribute to both personal happiness and longevity.

You get the feeling that many of my guests feel that the French language gives them entry into a more cultivated, more intelligent world, more highly civilised too, with rules.

- Bernard Pivot

More, Feel, Cultivated, Guests

The more English is heard in the world, the more gratifying it seems to speak French, and above all to know the culture of our country. They find a kind of French social grace in the language and culture.

- Bernard Pivot

Country, More, Social, Gratifying

People who do not speak our language very well do complain of feeling rebuffed by French people, who can sometimes be impatient, or even intolerant.

- Bernard Pivot

Sometimes, Impatient, Very, French People

French is a language that makes those who speak it both calm and dynamic.

- Bernard Pivot

Language, Calm, Makes, Dynamic

All the English speakers, or almost all, have difficulties with the gender of words.

- Bernard Pivot

Gender, Almost All, Almost, Speakers

They place great stress on the clarity of our language for expressing nuances and showing subtleties.

- Bernard Pivot

Stress, Expressing, Nuances, Clarity

This programme would only really make sense and work properly if it was also broadcast on France's international television channel TV5. So I ended up with a double production, on France 2 and TV5.

- Bernard Pivot

Work, Production, Broadcast, France

There is a pride in speaking this language.

- Bernard Pivot

Language, Speaking, Pride

I agreed on condition that we found a completely new concept that had nothing to do with the latest books.

- Bernard Pivot

New, Condition, Found, Agreed

It is very difficult to generalise. Everyone's adventure is original.

- Bernard Pivot

Original, Everyone, Very, Adventure

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