TF1 is premiering a new police drama, *Carpe Diem*, featuring Samuel Le Bihan as Tom Villeneuve, a man wrongfully imprisoned for his wife’s murder. Upon his release, Tom seeks to become a lawyer, driven to defend the innocent, uncover the truth about his wife’s death, and reconnect with his now-17-year-old daughter. The series explores themes of justice, resilience, and the complexities of personal relationships as Tom navigates his transformative journey.
TF1’s New Police Drama: *Carpe Diem*
This Monday, March 10, TF1 is set to launch a captivating new police drama in Prime Time titled *Carpe Diem.* Created by the talented duo Julien Guérif and Pierre Isoard, the series features Samuel Le Bihan in a compelling lead role. He portrays Tom Villeneuve, a devoted family man who has spent 17 years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit—the murder of his wife. Upon his release, Tom embarks on a transformative journey to become a lawyer, driven by three significant goals.
Tom Villeneuve’s Ambitious Goals
Tom aims to champion justice by defending the innocent, but he does so in an unconventional manner. His second aspiration is to uncover the truth behind his wife’s murder, convinced that the culprit is someone within his circle. Lastly, his heart yearns to reconnect with his daughter, who was just born when he was incarcerated. Now 17, she represents a new chapter in his life. Despite the trials he has faced, Tom remains a relentlessly optimistic and sometimes quirky character. Samuel Le Bihan shared insights about his character and the filming process.
Aufeminin: Do you connect with your character on any level?
Samuel Le Bihan: Absolutely! Each role reveals a part of ourselves. Tom embodies qualities I admire—his optimism, resilience, and unwavering belief in finding solutions. I cherish his spirit; despite the hardships, he continues to rise and radiate positivity.
Would you have pursued a career in law like Tom?
Yes, being a lawyer or a doctor has always intrigued me. I admire professions dedicated to helping others. In *Carpe Diem,* Tom’s unique approach as a lawyer is fascinating; he only represents those he believes are innocent, and he fights fiercely for their justice.
How was your experience filming with Jisca Kalvanda and Henri Giey, who are from a younger generation?
I thoroughly enjoyed it; we had a blast! I saw my younger self in them—their hopes, excitement, and fears mirrored my own beginnings. It’s a touching experience that resonates deeply. I always aspired to be like the kind, relatable actors I admired when I was starting out.
Did you offer them any guidance?
Yes, I occasionally shared little tips to help unlock certain scenes. Simple phrases like “think this way” made a noticeable difference, and it was rewarding to see them flourish with that guidance.
Is there a particular scene that resonated with you?
While all the scenes were impactful, the one with Tom and his daughter stands out. After 17 years of separation, his desire to reconnect is met with rejection, creating a poignant moment filled with both despair and hope. Additionally, filming many scenes in cold water during winter added another layer of challenge.
Could there be a romance with the police captain?
Given Tom’s lengthy incarceration and preoccupation with his wife and daughter, the prospect of new romantic relationships is complex. While he may appear relaxed, beneath the surface lies a profound shyness that complicates his interactions with women.
Do you have a good luck charm for shoots?
I cherish mementos from my past that symbolize important moments in my life, though I don’t carry any specific items with me on set. A meaningful painting or photo can evoke memories and inspiration at home.
Do you follow any rituals while filming?
While I don’t have a specific ritual, my life is structured around routines. My mornings begin with taking my daughter to school, and during *Carpe Diem,* I dedicated an hour daily to memorizing lines and another hour to physical fitness, ensuring I remained in top shape for the role.
Has fatherhood influenced your portrayal of a father in *Carpe Diem*?
Definitely! I infused a lot of my own experiences into the role. Each moment I portray reflects genuine emotions and personal insights, enabling me to create a character that feels authentic and relatable.