In 2011, a young French model named Thylane Blondeau blew up on the Internet after she was dubbed “the most beautiful girl in the world.”
With famous parents (soccer star Patrick Blondeau and actress Véronika Loubry), Blondeau was featured in a Vogue spread that led to a great deal of backlash, considering she was only 11 years old at the time.
That was over six years ago, however.
What has happened to Blondeau since then?
Has she faced the sort of downward spiral that often afflicts child stars? Or has she gone on to a successful career?
Let’s take a journey and find out below!
A Very Young Start
Blondeau’s mother and father got her into modeling almost at the age of four. In 2005, she participated in the Jean Paul Gaultier fashion show, actually walking down the runway.
The Praise Starts Early
We don’t wish to sound all creepy, but these piercing blue eyes made it clear early on that Blondeau would grow up to be a beauty. Many said so at the time.
But, Really, Though?
Many critics wondered if a girl this young should be on the runway.
Young and Beautiful
Some countries don’t even allow kids under the age of 16 from serving as professional models. But France is not among them.
Another Modeling Shot
Here’s a look at Blondeau prior to one of her fashion shows as a child.
The Vogue Shoot
At the age of 11, Blondeau shot into the spotlight as a result of this Vogue spread.
The Backlash Begins
Said psychologist Emma Grey six years ago: “This picture is the antithesis of what childhood in our society should be; a child being exposed to a world she is not yet equipped to deal with solely to serve the needs of the adults around her.”
More Criticism:
Said a spokesperson back then for Christian charity Mother’s Union: “We have grave concerns about the modeling agency who represent Blondeau, which clearly does not know if it represents a child or an adult.”
She’s Growing Up
Blondeau continued to model as she grew older.
Said Her Mother in Response:
“I admit I myself was shocked during the photo shoot. But let me be precise: the only thing that shocked me is that the necklace she wore was worth €3 million!”
Moreover, Added Her Mom:
“I turn down at least three-quarters of the things we’re offered. For the moment, she’s leading a normal life.”
When She Was 14…
Thylane was featured on the books of IMG Models and started to increase her Instagram presence.
Popular on Instagram
Thylane Blondeau now has 1.2 million Instagram followers.
Loving Her Work
“My favorite part of the job is meeting new photographers and makeup artists. I love to try on the clothes, too!†Blondeau told Teen Vogue in 2015.
An Aspiring Actress
In 2015, she starred in the French film Belle & Sébastien: The Adventure Continues. She would like to add to her big screen resume.
Did She Start Modeling Too Young?
She doesn’t think so. “Well, Kate Moss started modeling at the age of 15, and that was a little while ago,” responded Blondeau to this question. “So, no. I’m not too young. If you have a good agency and people who take care of you… it’s perfect.”
Living a Simple Life
In October of 2016, Thylane attended Paris Fashion Week and did an interview with W magazine in which asked what she would be doing after the event was over. “Going home to get some rest and going to school,” she replied simply.
She’s Now 16 Years Old
She turned that age on April 5, 2017. And she has no plans on slowing down her modeling career. She seems to have a stable head on her shoulders despite starting so young, howevever. We wish her the best.
This is Her Latest Instagram Photo
It was posted on May 31, 2017, if you want to see what she looks like now.