Émilie Dequenne, Renowned Belgian Actress and Cannes Winner, Passes Away at 43

Mon Oct 20 2025 10:03:17 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Acclaimed for her role in 'Rosetta,' the talented actress bravely battled adrenal cancer before her untimely death.

Émilie Dequenne, who captured hearts with her outstanding debut performance in "Rosetta" at the Cannes Film Festival, has died at the age of 43 after a brave struggle against a rare form of cancer.

Émilie Dequenne, the acclaimed Belgian actress who gained international recognition for her powerful portrayal in the film "Rosetta," has died at the Gustave Roussy hospital in Villejuif, France. She was only 43 years old at the time of her passing. The news was confirmed by Marie-Laure Calmette, assistant to Dequenne’s long-time agent, Danielle Gain. Dequenne had been diagnosed with adrenocortical carcinoma, a rare and aggressive cancer of the adrenal glands.

Dequenne first burst into the limelight at just 17, earning the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in "Rosetta," directed by the Dardenne brothers. The film, which explores the struggles of a working-class teenager determined to secure a job, achieved significant acclaim and won the prestigious Palme d’Or.

Throughout her career, Émilie starred in nearly 50 films, showcasing her versatility in works such as "The Brotherhood of the Wolf," "The Bridge of San Luis Rey," and "Our Children." She garnered numerous accolades for her performances, including a César Award for Best Supporting Actress in Emmanuel Mouret's 2020 film "Love Affair(s)."

After announcing her cancer diagnosis in an October 2023 interview, Dequenne candidly discussed the impact of her illness on her life. She described her journey through the challenges of her diagnosis, the isolation it brought, and the importance of honesty in difficult times.

Born in Beloeil, Belgium on August 29, 1981, Dequenne pursued drama studies at the Académie de Musique et des Arts de la Parole de Baudour. She began her acting career with a company in a border region near France. She is survived by her husband, Michel Ferracci, and her daughter, Milla Savarese, from a previous relationship.

In a poignant reflection of her resilience, Dequenne celebrated the 25th anniversary of "Rosetta" at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, shortly before her health declined. In her final years, she also promoted the film "Survive" and appeared in "TKT," a poignant exploration of bullying set in a Belgian high school. Émilie Dequenne will be remembered not only for her immense talent but also for her courageous spirit in the face of adversity.