Roman Polanski
Polish and French filmmaker
Who is Roman Polanski?
Raymond Roman Thierry Polański (né Liebling; born 18 August 1933) is a Polish and French filmmaker and actor. Polanski's parents moved the family from his birthplace in Paris back to Kraków in 1937. Two years later, the invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany started World War II, and the family found themselves trapped in the Kraków Ghetto. In 1977, Polanski was arrested in the United States for drugging and raping a 13-year-old girl. The night before his sentencing hearing in 1978, he learned that the judge would likely reject the proffered plea bargain, so he fled the U.S. to Europe, where he continued his career. He remains a fugitive from the U.S. justice system. Subsequently, allegations of abuse have been made by several women.
Historical significance
He is the recipient of numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, three British Academy Film Awards, ten César Awards, and two Golden Globe Awards as well as a Golden Bear and a Palme d'Or. He pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of unlawful sex with a minor in exchange for a probation-only sentence.
