Belgian actress Émilie Dequenne, renowned for her award-winning performance in Rosetta, has passed away at the age of 43. Her death was confirmed by her longtime agent, Danielle Gain, to Agence France-Presse (AFP), with several major news outlets including Deadline and Le Monde reporting the news. Dequenne died on the evening of Sunday, March 16, 2025, in a hospital near Paris, France, following a publicly disclosed health battle.
Celebrated Career Began With Cannes Triumph
Émilie Dequenne rose to international fame in 1999 with her breakthrough role in Rosetta, directed by Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne. The film won the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival that year, and Dequenne received the Best Actress award for her powerful portrayal of a working-class teenager struggling to survive in a bleak economic landscape.
Her performance in Rosetta was widely praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. The film itself became a symbol of modern European cinema, with Dequenne’s acting at its core. The success of Rosetta also contributed to a new law in Belgium aimed at improving youth employment, often referred to as the “Rosetta Plan.”
A Respected Actress in French and Belgian Cinema
Following her debut, Dequenne built a highly respected acting career across both Belgian and French cinema. She appeared in a wide range of critically acclaimed films including The Girl on the Train (La Fille du RER) directed by André Téchiné, Our Children (À Perdre la Raison) directed by Joachim Lafosse, and Not My Type (Pas son genre).
In 2012, Dequenne received the Un Certain Regard Award for Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in Our Children, where she portrayed a woman navigating a deeply troubling family situation. The film was based on real-life events and further demonstrated Dequenne’s versatility and emotional range as an actress.
In 2014, she was nominated for a César Award, the French equivalent of the Academy Awards, for her performance in Pas son genre. Her portrayal of a lively and spirited hairdresser involved in a complex romantic relationship was praised by critics and audiences alike.
Personal Health Battle Made Public in 2023
In October 2023, Dequenne publicly announced her diagnosis of a rare form of adrenal gland cancer. The adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, produce essential hormones that regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and the stress response. Cancers of the adrenal glands are considered rare and are typically aggressive, according to the American Cancer Society.
Despite her diagnosis, Dequenne remained optimistic and continued to engage with the public. In a heartfelt social media message, she shared her gratitude for the support she had received and expressed hope in continuing her fight. Her openness about her condition inspired many and brought attention to an often-overlooked form of cancer.
Tributes From Colleagues and Fans
Following the announcement of her passing, numerous tributes poured in from the entertainment industry. Charlotte Tourret, Dequenne’s longtime press representative, posted a tribute on Instagram, remembering her as a generous, radiant, and deeply talented woman. Tourret reflected on Dequenne’s ability to brighten the lives of those around her both on and off screen.
Several actors, directors, and film organizations also expressed their condolences and admiration. The Cannes Film Festival shared an official statement honoring her contribution to cinema, calling her performance in Rosetta a defining moment for contemporary film and a benchmark of cinematic realism.
The Dardenne brothers, with whom Dequenne collaborated on her breakout film, released a joint statement expressing their sorrow and respect for her enduring talent and warmth.
Legacy of Advocacy and Artistic Integrity
Beyond her acting career, Dequenne was known for her integrity, empathy, and social consciousness. Throughout her career, she chose roles that often highlighted social issues, family dynamics, and the resilience of the human spirit. Her artistic choices reflected a deep commitment to telling meaningful stories that resonated with audiences across cultures.
Dequenne also lent her voice to humanitarian causes, including mental health awareness and women’s rights. She participated in various campaigns promoting equality and well-being in the arts community. Her efforts earned her widespread admiration beyond the screen.
Her passing represents a significant loss for the European film community. At just 43 years old, Dequenne had already built a body of work that showcased extraordinary emotional range and a rare ability to inhabit complex characters with honesty and nuance.
Recognition and Awards
Throughout her career, Émilie Dequenne earned several accolades, including:
-
Best Actress, Cannes Film Festival (1999) – Rosetta
-
Best Actress, Un Certain Regard, Cannes Film Festival (2012) – Our Children
-
Magritte Award, Best Actress (Belgium) – multiple nominations and one win
-
César Award nomination (France) – Not My Type
These honors serve as a testament to her influence and skill, firmly establishing her place among the great talents of European cinema.
Remembering Émilie Dequenne
Emilie Dequenne’s passing has been deeply felt not only by her family, colleagues, and friends but also by fans and filmgoers who admired her authenticity and courage. Her legacy will live on through the characters she brought to life and the impact she made on global cinema.
She is survived by her family, who have requested privacy during this time of mourning.
As tributes continue to come in, one thing remains clear: Émilie Dequenne’s contribution to the world of film will not be forgotten. Her performances challenged audiences, uplifted narratives of resilience, and brought a human face to complex issues—an achievement that will endure for generations to come.
Final Thoughts
The story of Émilie Dequenne is one of passion, resilience, and artistic excellence. From a young actress winning the top prize at Cannes to a seasoned performer confronting personal challenges with grace, she remained committed to her craft and her principles.
Her untimely passing at age 43 is a reminder of life’s fragility, but her work remains as a powerful reminder of the beauty and truth that great cinema can bring. As the global film community reflects on her life and career, Émilie Dequenne is remembered not only for her talent but also for her courage, kindness, and the light she brought to the world.
