Belgian Actress Émilie Dequenne Dies at 43

Émilie Dequenne, acclaimed Belgian actress best known for her award-winning role in Rosetta, has died at age 43. Her agent, Danielle Gain,

confirmed she passed away on March 16 at a hospital near Paris, nearly two years after revealing her battle with a rare adrenal gland cancer.

Born August 29, 1981, in Beloeil, Belgium, Dequenne rose to international fame in 1999 with her raw performance in Rosetta,

which earned her the Best Actress award at Cannes. The film’s success launched her into a celebrated career in European cinema.

Dequenne delivered powerful performances in a range of films, including The Girl on the Train (2009), Our Children (2012),

The Pack (2010), and Rouge (2020). Her portrayal in Our Children also earned her a second Cannes honor in the Un Certain Regard category.

Known for her emotional depth and authenticity, she remained a beloved figure in Belgian and French film.

In October 2023, Dequenne publicly disclosed her cancer diagnosis but remained active and resilient.

She is survived by her husband, Michel Ferracci, and her daughter, Milla. Her press agent wrote: “You are an inspiring woman… I love you forever, my Emily 🕊️.”