Niels Arestrup (born in 1949) is a prominent French actor, renowned for his intense screen presence and his ability to embody complex and often ambiguous characters.

His cinematic career is studded with memorable roles, distinguishing himself particularly in the works of Jacques Audiard. He has garnered critical acclaim and numerous César Awards for his performances in films such as *De battre mon cœur s'est arrêté* (2005) and especially *Un prophète* (2009), in which he delivered a masterful performance in the role of the charismatic but ruthless mafia boss César Luciani.

Among his other important works are *Cheval de guerre* (War Horse, 2011) by Steven Spielberg and *Diplomatie* (2014) by Volker Schlöndorff. He is often cast as authoritarian, menacing, or powerful figures, thanks to his deep voice and penetrating gaze which lend his characters remarkable psychological depth.