Origins & Early Life

David Nicolas Belle (born 29 April 1973) is a French actor, film choreographer and stunt coordinator. He is deemed the founder and leading pioneer of the physical discipline parkour, coining it based on his training and the teachings from his father Raymond Belle. Belle came to fame via his parkour videos and film appearances, such as District 13, District 13: Ultimatum, which were written and produced by Luc Besson, and the American remake Brick Mansions. Belle has also consulted on the making of Babylon A.D., Prince of Persia, Colombiana, The Family, and the videogame series Dying Light.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

He is the chair of the Parkour Committee of the International Federation of Gymnastics. Belle was born and raised in Fécamp, the son of Monique and Raymond Belle of Paris. His grandfather Gilbert Kitten, father Raymond, and brother Jean-François Belle were highly skilled rescuers in the Military Paris Fire Brigade. His father Raymond Belle was born in French Indochina, and was of French and Vietnamese descent, while his mother Monique Kitten was of French and English ancestry. David Belle began developing parkour in Normandy while living with his grandfather, Gilbert.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

In 1984...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• Alfred Hitchcock — Shared historical date (04-29 · Died) (1980): Master of Suspense, influential English filmmaker known for psychological thrillers.
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