Celebrated Belgian Actress Émilie Dequenne Passes Away at 43

Tue Sep 30 2025 13:22:13 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The acclaimed actress known for her role in “Rosetta” lost her battle with adrenal cancer, leaving behind a legacy of impactful performances.

Émilie Dequenne, who captured hearts with her powerful debut in “Rosetta” and won a Cannes Film Festival best actress award at age 17, has passed away at 43 after being diagnosed with a rare adrenal cancer. Throughout her career, she starred in nearly 50 films and became a notable figure in both Belgian and French cinema.

Émilie Dequenne, the talented Belgian actress who gained international recognition for her remarkable performance in the film “Rosetta,” has died at 43. Her passing was confirmed on Sunday at the Gustave Roussy hospital in Villejuif, France, following a courageous battle with adrenal cancer.

Dequenne soared to fame at just 17 years old, winning the prestigious best actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in the Dardenne brothers' film, "Rosetta," which follows the struggles of a determined working-class teenager. The film not only earned her acclaim but also won the Palme d’Or, the festival’s highest award.

Over the years, she graced the screen in numerous notable productions, including "The Brotherhood of the Wolf," "The Bridge of San Luis Rey," and "Our Children." In 2023, she shocked fans when she revealed her diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma, an aggressive form of adrenal cancer, which led to public discussions about her health challenges during an emotional interview aired on "Sept à Huit."

Dequenne’s film career spanned nearly five decades, with close to 50 roles and multiple awards, including a César for best supporting actress for her performance in "Love Affair(s)." She became particularly celebrated for her roles in "Our Children" and her breakthrough in "Rosetta," where her talent illuminated the screen. Dardenne recalled how her genuine passion during her first shoot brought the entire crew together, paving the way for an impressive directorial vision.

Born on August 29, 1981, in Beloeil, Belgium, Dequenne trained at the Académie de Musique et des Arts de la Parole de Baudour before embarking on her acting career. She is remembered not only for her talent but also for her resilience through her battle with illness.

Dequenne is survived by her husband Michel Ferracci and her daughter Milla Savarese from a previous relationship. Just last year, while celebrating the 25th anniversary of “Rosetta” at Cannes, she promoted her latest film "Survive" and made an appearance in "TKT," a drama concerning bullying in schools. Her legacy in film and the memories of her unforgettable performances will continue to inspire future generations of actors.