French film producer Nicolas Altmayer and Dior public relations director Mathilde Favier died in a car crash in the Deux-Sèvres region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, according to multiple French media reports on Tuesday.
Le Parisien reported that director Franck Gastambide paid tribute to Altmayer, calling him his "cinema dad" in a social media post. Le Monde confirmed the deaths, identifying Altmayer as a producer of the OSS 117 spy comedy franchise and Favier as Dior's head of celebrity relations. Sud Ouest also reported the accident, noting both figures died in the collision.
The crash occurred in the Deux-Sèvres department, per La Nouvelle République. The same outlet reported that police custody of a truck driver involved in the collision has been extended as investigators continue their work.
Altmayer was a well-known figure in French cinema, having produced the popular OSS 117 films starring Jean Dujardin. Favier, 57, was a prominent figure in Parisian fashion circles, responsible for managing Dior's relationships with celebrities and high-profile clients, according to BFM.
Gastambide's tribute highlighted the personal loss felt by those who worked with Altmayer. The producer had collaborated with many of France's leading directors and actors over his career.
The accident has sent shockwaves through both the French film and fashion industries, with colleagues and public figures expressing condolences. Authorities have not yet released further details about the circumstances of the crash or the identities of any other individuals involved.
Investigators are continuing to examine the events that led to the fatal collision, and the extended custody of the truck driver suggests the inquiry remains active. Further information may emerge as the investigation progresses.
