Émilie Dequenne, the acclaimed Belgian actress who gained international fame after winning the best actress award at the Cannes Film Festival at just 18 years old, has tragically passed away at the age of 43 following a battle with cancer. She first captured audiences with her breakthrough performance in the 1999 film Rosetta, which also won the prestigious Palme d'Or.
Émilie Dequenne: Beloved Cannes Actress Passes Away at 43

Émilie Dequenne: Beloved Cannes Actress Passes Away at 43
The film industry mourns the loss of Émilie Dequenne, a celebrated Belgian actress known for her iconic roles and powerful performances.
Dequenne continued to earn acclaim throughout her career, winning another Cannes award for the film À Perdre la Raison in 2012 and securing a César award in 2021 for her performance in Les Choses Qu'on Dit, les Choses Qu'on Fait. While she predominantly worked in French-language films, her versatility also led her to a role in the 2014 BBC drama The Missing, where she played police officer Laurence Relaud.
Born into the world of cinema, Dequenne's talent was evident from her first role, which she landed after a tough period of unemployment. The film Rosetta was directed by Luc and Jean-Pierre Dardenne, who praised her extraordinary ability and dedication during the shooting process.
Dequenne made her final appearance on the Cannes red carpet in 2022, a testament to her enduring talent and presence in the film community. French Culture Minister Rachida Dati was among those who expressed their condolences, emphasizing the void left by the loss of such a remarkable actress.
In the last months of her life, Dequenne bravely revealed her diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). In a poignant post on Instagram for World Cancer Day, she reflected on her challenging journey, indicating the strength and resilience she displayed throughout her battle. She leaves behind a legacy celebrated by fans and fellow artists alike.
The film industry has lost not only a gifted actress but a vibrant spirit who had much more to contribute to the arts.
FranceFilmCannes Film FestivalBelgium
Born into the world of cinema, Dequenne's talent was evident from her first role, which she landed after a tough period of unemployment. The film Rosetta was directed by Luc and Jean-Pierre Dardenne, who praised her extraordinary ability and dedication during the shooting process.
Dequenne made her final appearance on the Cannes red carpet in 2022, a testament to her enduring talent and presence in the film community. French Culture Minister Rachida Dati was among those who expressed their condolences, emphasizing the void left by the loss of such a remarkable actress.
In the last months of her life, Dequenne bravely revealed her diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). In a poignant post on Instagram for World Cancer Day, she reflected on her challenging journey, indicating the strength and resilience she displayed throughout her battle. She leaves behind a legacy celebrated by fans and fellow artists alike.
The film industry has lost not only a gifted actress but a vibrant spirit who had much more to contribute to the arts.
FranceFilmCannes Film FestivalBelgium