Benjamin Attal: Meet the man who gave Thylane Blondeau her engagement ring

It's the engagement that everyone in France is talking about: former child star model Thylane Blondeau has got engaged to her long-term boyfriend, Benjamin Attal. The 24-year-old posted a picture on Instagram of her boyfriend popping the question – and now all the world wants to know one thing: who is this Benjamin Attal who has captured Blondeau's heart?

From best friends to fiancés

What many didn't know: before they became a couple, they were inseparable friends for years. "My best friend became my fiancé," Thylane wrote under her post, making it crystal clear: there's no room for doubt here. The proposal is said to have taken place in an intimate setting, surrounded by family and those closest to them. The sparkling diamond on her finger – a real showstopper, as everyone noted.

The women behind the scenes: Mum and aunt are over the moon

Unsurprisingly, the first to congratulate them was Véronika Loubry. The bride's mother, herself a familiar face on French television, commented on the post with a flurry of heart emojis. Aunt Karine Le Marchand, the legendary host of 'L'amour est dans le pré' (France's 'Farmer Wants a Wife'), also made sure to publicly congratulate her niece. The whole family seems absolutely thrilled with Benjamin.

A roundup of the reactions:

• Véronika Loubry: "My heart is bursting with happiness"
• Karine Le Marchand: "Finally official! Love you both so much"
• The fans: Hundreds of comments celebrating the couple and admiring the ring

Who is Benjamin Attal really?

Unlike his fiancée, who was gracing the world's catwalks as a child, Benjamin Attal has largely stayed out of the spotlight until now. He's not an actor, not a singer – he's grounded, private, almost low-key. Those who know him describe him as Thylane's rock, the one who's there for her when the modelling madness gets too much. And that seems to be exactly what the young woman values about him: authenticity.

Now, after the engagement, he probably won't be able to fly under the radar so easily anymore. The paparazzi have already got him in their sights, and the gossip columns are full of speculation about the wedding. But one thing's for sure: if anyone can keep their cool, it's this Benjamin Attal, who's suddenly gone from a relative unknown to one of the most talked-about men in France.

We're curious to see what the wedding will look like – and whether Mum Loubry and Aunt Karine will again be the first ones on the dance floor.