They were counting on his imminent death to make a tidy profit; Louis Martinet doesn’t see it that way. Le Viager is airing on 6ter Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 9:10 PM. Pierre Tchernia directs this comedy starring Michel Serrault, Michel Galabru, and Claude Brasseur.
In 1930, Dr. Léon Galipeau estimates that his patient Martinet, aged 59, does not have long to live. He advises his brother to buy in life annuity the house he owns in Saint-Tropez. But as the years pass, Martinet grows stronger, and the payments keep coming. The hope of a real estate inheritance turns into a trap for the buyers.
Released in France on January 19, 1972, the film was written by Pierre Tchernia and René Goscinny. The plot centers on this twist: the robust health of Michel Serrault's character thwarts a family’s scheme to hasten his disappearance. Jean-Pierre Darras, Rosy Varte, and Odette Laure round out the cast.
To go further, also check out our selection of films, series and shows to watch on TV this week, our guide to new releases across all platforms, and today’s pick What to watch today on streaming.
This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.
