On May 9, 2025, a poignant episode of Capitaine Marleau will air on France 2, marking a bittersweet moment for fans and cast alike. This episode features the beloved actress Corinne Masiero alongside Émilie Dequenne, who tragically passed away on March 16, 2025, at the age of 43 due to cancer. This broadcast not only showcases Dequenne's talent but also serves as a heartfelt tribute to her enduring spirit and passion for acting.
The episode, titled "7e danse," revolves around a mystery at a dance festival organized by Véronique, played by Dequenne, and her partner Alexandre Rémonville, portrayed by Grégoire Bonnet. The plot thickens when Véronique's daughter goes missing, followed by the murder of Alexandre's brother. As the festival unfolds, Captain Marleau, played by Masiero, dives into the investigation, uncovering secrets that intertwine the lives of the characters. "While the festival-goers dance, Marleau tries to understand what Véronique is hiding about her past," details France 2.
Émilie Dequenne, who gained fame at 18 for her role in the Dardenne brothers' film Rosetta, was known for her generosity and commitment to her craft. Despite her health struggles, she continued to work, with her last role in Capitaine Marleau serving as a testament to her resilience. In April 2024, she announced that she was in remission from cancer, offering a glimmer of hope before her health took a tragic turn.
Corinne Masiero, who starred alongside Dequenne, shared her reflections on their time together during filming. "I discovered an exceptional, luminous, joyful, and empathetic woman. Someone who was very cheerful as well. She was our ray of sunshine," Masiero expressed in an interview with Télé Loisirs. Masiero noted that the atmosphere on set was surprisingly joyful, despite the circumstances surrounding Dequenne's illness. "We all knew she was sick. She didn’t hide it, and sometimes she was tired. But she had this spark in her eyes. She was happy to act and be with us," Masiero added.
Dequenne's presence on set was described as uplifting. "At no time was it sad or difficult. On the contrary, Émilie’s good humor was contagious. Whatever her state of fatigue, she had that spark in her eyes. She was happy to play, to be with us," Masiero recalled. The filming experience is one that she cherishes deeply, stating, "It’s, and it will remain, one of my most beautiful shoots." This sentiment resonates with many who worked with Dequenne, who was surrounded by loved ones during her final performances.
Josée Dayan, the director of the series, also praised Dequenne's performance, stating, "She is truly the great actress she was. With this episode, she had the opportunity to be playful, emotional, and angry. It’s a beautiful range for her. She is magnificent in this character." The episode is expected to air at 9:10 PM on France 2, and it carries with it a weight of emotion, not only for the storyline but also for the legacy of Dequenne.
As the production team learned of Dequenne's passing during the filming of another episode, they took a moment to honor her memory. "Josée asked for a minute of silence on set. It was painful and very strong," Masiero recounted. The impact of Dequenne’s life and work continues to resonate with her colleagues and fans alike. "Émilie left a mark on all of us. Death is part of life; we must welcome it as such. It reminds us to enjoy every moment," Masiero concluded.
Tonight’s episode of Capitaine Marleau is not just another installment in a popular series; it’s a celebration of an actress who brought joy and depth to her roles, even in her final days. As viewers tune in, they will witness both a compelling mystery and a tribute to a remarkable talent. Émilie Dequenne’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through her performances, inspiring future generations of actors and audiences.
