Régine

Biography

Régine Zylberberg, born on December 26, 1929, in Anderlecht, Belgium, and known simply as Régine, was a multifaceted talent—singer, actress, and influential nightclub owner—who left an indelible mark on the entertainment and nightlife scenes. Her life journey began under harrowing circumstances; as a child of Polish Jewish descent, she spent her formative years evading the Nazis during World War II. After the war, she found herself selling bras on the streets of Paris, where her father's café became a small refuge.

Régine's ascent in the nightlife industry began in the 1950s when she took the helm of the Whisky à Gogo in Paris, revolutionizing it into a dynamic discotheque that set the template for modern dance clubs. By 1958, she had opened Chez Régine in the Latin Quarter, quickly becoming a hotspot for celebrities and socialites. Her influence expanded internationally, leading her to establish nightclubs in major cities such as New York, London, and Monte Carlo, with a total of 22 venues at her peak.

In the 1970s, she launched the iconic Jimmy'z nightclub in Monaco and opened Regine's nightclub in New York City, which featured a menu curated by renowned chef Michel Guérard. Beyond nightlife, Régine ventured into fashion, creating a line of wrinkle-resistant evening wear. Her illustrious career also included performances at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and the Olympia in Paris, solidifying her status as the "Queen of the Night." Régine passed away on May 1, 2022, leaving behind a legacy that transformed leisure and entertainment.