In a tragic loss for the film industry, Émilie Dequenne, a celebrated Belgian actress, has died due to cancer at the age of 43. Best known for her breakout role in the 1999 Cannes-winning film Rosetta, where she won the Best Actress award at just 18, Dequenne's illustrious career spanned two decades and included multiple esteemed accolades, such as another Cannes award for À Perdre la Raison in 2012, and a César for her performance in Les Choses Qu'on Dit, les Choses Qu'on Fait in 2021.
Dequenne's journey in the film industry began amidst personal hardship — after losing her job in a food factory, she was cast in Rosetta, which was directed by the Dardenne brothers. Her portrayal as a teen struggling against adversity resonated with audiences and critics alike. "She managed to bring the whole team together," noted director Luc Dardenne, who praised her remarkable talent during a tribute.
Beyond her early success, Dequenne showcased her versatility in various roles, such as her character Laurence Relaud in the 2014 BBC drama The Missing, which featured a gripping narrative about a missing child. Her diverse filmography also includes notable works like La fille du RER and the 2022 Cannes nominee, Close.
After recently revealing her diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma in October 2023, Dequenne's brave fight against cancer struck a chord with many. In one of her final social media posts for World Cancer Day, she expressed the difficulties of this journey, stating, "What a tough fight! And we don't choose..."
French Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, acknowledged her talent posthumously, emphasizing the profound loss in francophone cinema with her passing. Émilie Dequenne leaves behind a remarkable legacy and a body of work that ensures her artistry will be remembered for years to come.
Dequenne's journey in the film industry began amidst personal hardship — after losing her job in a food factory, she was cast in Rosetta, which was directed by the Dardenne brothers. Her portrayal as a teen struggling against adversity resonated with audiences and critics alike. "She managed to bring the whole team together," noted director Luc Dardenne, who praised her remarkable talent during a tribute.
Beyond her early success, Dequenne showcased her versatility in various roles, such as her character Laurence Relaud in the 2014 BBC drama The Missing, which featured a gripping narrative about a missing child. Her diverse filmography also includes notable works like La fille du RER and the 2022 Cannes nominee, Close.
After recently revealing her diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma in October 2023, Dequenne's brave fight against cancer struck a chord with many. In one of her final social media posts for World Cancer Day, she expressed the difficulties of this journey, stating, "What a tough fight! And we don't choose..."
French Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, acknowledged her talent posthumously, emphasizing the profound loss in francophone cinema with her passing. Émilie Dequenne leaves behind a remarkable legacy and a body of work that ensures her artistry will be remembered for years to come.
