On May 9, 2025, France 2 aired a poignant episode of "Capitaine Marleau" titled "La 7e danse," serving as a heartfelt tribute to the late actress Émilie Dequenne, who passed away on March 16, 2025, due to a rare cancer. The episode, which had been filmed in 2024 under the direction of Josée Dayan, featured Dequenne in the role of Véronique Rémonville, a mother who organizes an annual dance festival with her husband, Alexandre, portrayed by Grégoire Bonnet.
Set against the backdrop of a vibrant dance festival, the episode unfolds as Véronique's daughter mysteriously disappears, and Alexandre's brother is found murdered. As the festivities continue, Captain Marleau, played by Corinne Masiero, delves into the secrets that Véronique is hiding about her past. The narrative raises questions about the connections between the characters and the enigmatic Zoé, a young woman who seems to stir hidden passions.
Émilie Dequenne's role in this episode resonates deeply, especially given the circumstances surrounding its production. Having been diagnosed with cancer in August 2023, Dequenne was in remission during filming but still faced the challenges of her illness. Corinne Masiero, who shared the screen with Dequenne for the first time during this project, reflected on the experience, stating, "I discovered an exceptional woman, luminous, joyful, and empathetic. She was our ray of sunshine." Masiero noted that Dequenne's positivity and enthusiasm for acting were infectious, creating an atmosphere of joy on set despite the underlying sadness of her condition.
Josée Dayan, the director, described the filming process as a "beautiful experience," emphasizing that Dequenne was able to showcase a wide range of emotions in her character. "She was magnificent in this role, able to be playful, emotional, and even angry," Dayan remarked. The episode was not just a professional endeavor for Dequenne; it was a personal journey, as she was surrounded by family during the shoot. Her daughter, Milla Savarese, worked as a makeup artist on the set, and her husband, Michel Ferracci, also appeared in a small role.
The emotional weight of the episode was palpable, especially considering it was Dequenne's last performance. Masiero recalled the moment when the cast learned of Dequenne's passing, saying, "It was painful and very strong. Émilie left a mark on all of us. Death is part of life; we must embrace it as such. It reminds us to cherish every moment." Her colleagues have expressed their admiration for Dequenne's courage and dedication to her craft, with Grégoire Bonnet sharing that she found refuge in acting, even as her health deteriorated.
In an interview with "Télé-Loisirs," Masiero reflected on the unique atmosphere during filming, noting that it was never a somber or difficult experience. "At no point was it sad or hard. On the contrary, Émilie's good humor was contagious. No matter how tired she was, she had that sparkle in her eye. She was happy to act, to be with us." This sentiment was echoed by Dayan, who highlighted Dequenne's luminous presence, stating, "She truly was the great actress she was meant to be, and this episode allowed her to express herself fully. It was a beautiful range for her."
The decision to air this episode was also timely, coinciding with the upcoming Cannes Film Festival, where Émilie Dequenne was expected to be honored posthumously. France 2 made a significant programming shift to highlight this episode, which not only showcases Dequenne's talent but also serves as a reminder of her contributions to the French cinema landscape.
Émilie Dequenne first gained recognition at the age of 18 for her role in "Rosetta," directed by the Dardenne brothers, which earned her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival in 1999. Over the years, she became a beloved figure in Francophone cinema, known for her generosity and commitment to her craft. Even after her diagnosis, Dequenne continued to work, embodying resilience and passion, traits that her colleagues and fans admired.
As viewers tuned in to watch "La 7e danse," they were not only treated to a gripping narrative but also to a tribute that encapsulated Émilie Dequenne's spirit and artistry. The episode serves as a testament to her legacy, reminding audiences of the joy she brought to her roles and the impact she made on those around her.
In the wake of her passing, tributes have poured in from fans and fellow actors alike, all highlighting her strength and the indelible mark she left on the industry. With this episode, Émilie Dequenne's memory lives on, celebrated through her art and the stories she helped tell.
