Émilie Dequenne: A Talented Star Taken Too Soon

The film industry mourns the loss of Émilie Dequenne, the Belgian actress renowned for her remarkable talent and captivating performances. Dequenne passed away on March 17, 2025, at the age of 43, after a courageous battle with adrenocortical carcinoma, a rare form of cancer affecting the adrenal glands. Her family confirmed the heartbreaking news to the French news agency AFP.

Born on August 29, 1981, in Belœil, Belgium, Dequenne’s rise to fame began at the tender age of 18. She captivated audiences with her powerful portrayal of a struggling teenager in the Dardenne Brothers’ acclaimed film “Rosetta,” which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 1999. Her performance earned her the prestigious Best Actress award, and “Rosetta” won the coveted Palme d’Or, solidifying her place in cinematic history.

Following her breakout role, Dequenne showcased her versatility in a variety of genres. She starred in the commercially successful “Brotherhood of the Wolf” (2001) and explored both mainstream and independent films throughout her career. Notable works include Philippe Lioret’s “The Light” (2004), the emotionally charged “The Girl on the Train” (2009) alongside French icon Catherine Deneuve, and the chilling horror film “The Pack” (2010).

Dequenne’s talent was once again recognized in 2012 with her acclaimed performance in Joachim Lafosse’s psychological drama “Our Children,” where she portrayed a complex character that garnered her a second Best Actress award at Cannes, this time in the Un Certain Regard section. Her ability to delve into the depths of human emotion made her a standout in every role she undertook.

In recent years, Dequenne continued to impress audiences with her work in the Belgian rom-com “Not My Type” (2014), the political drama “This Is Our Land” (2017), Emmanuel Mouret’s “Love Affair(s)” (2020), and Lukas Dhont’s coming-of-age drama “Close” (2022). Last year, she returned to Cannes to celebrate the 25th anniversary of “Rosetta,” a testament to the film’s enduring impact and her legacy.

Luc Dardenne, who directed her in “Rosetta,” expressed his sorrow over her untimely passing, stating, “She was really too young, she had so many things to do.” He highlighted her passion for acting, noting her hard work and intuitive nature that endeared her to audiences and fellow filmmakers alike.

Émilie Dequenne leaves behind her husband, author Michel Ferracci, and her daughter, Milla Savarese, from a previous relationship. Her contributions to cinema will be remembered, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers. As the industry reflects on her incredible career, it is clear that Émilie Dequenne was not only a talented actress but also a beloved figure whose spirit will live on through her work.