Émilie Dequenne, the renowned Belgian actress, passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at the age of 43, following a brave battle with rare adrenal gland cancer. Her family and agent, Danielle Gain, confirmed her death at the Gustave Roussy hospital located in Villejuif, Paris. Her struggle with health issues captivated the public, especially after she revealed her diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma, commonly known as corticosurrenaloma, back in October 2023.
This incredibly rare form of cancer affects between one and two individuals per million people annually. Dequenne was known for her emotional transparency about her illness. On February 4, 2025, she conveyed her fight against cancer on Instagram, stating, "Quelle lutte acharnée ! Et qu’on ne choisit pas..." (What a fierce struggle! And we do not choose...), reflecting her determination and the severity of her diagnosis.
Émilie Dequenne's career took off at just 18 years old when she starred in the critically acclaimed film "Rosetta" by the Dardenne brothers—a performance which earned her the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival. The role showcased her ability to convey depth and emotional authenticity, characteristics which would define her illustrious career spanning nearly 25 years and nearly 50 films. Some of her notable works include "La Fille du RER," "À perdre la raison," and "Les Choses qu’on dit, les Choses qu’on fait," the latter for which she received the César for Best Supporting Actress in 2021.
The Belgian actress, born on August 29, 1981, grew up in modest circumstances, often reflecting on her roots. She expressed her gratitude for her upbringing and the values she learned. "J'ai reçu une éducation ouvrière... tous des rois !" (I received a working-class education... everyone is treated like kings!) she once said, encapsulating her humble beginnings and deep appreciation for her craft.
Dequenne's talent garnered admiration from many co-stars and industry veterans, who were quick to share their tributes upon hearing of her passing. Rachida Dati, France's Minister of Culture, lamented, "Nous avons tous été marqués par ses interprétations bouleversantes dans des rôles forts. Le cinéma francophone perd, trop tôt, une actrice de talent qui avait encore tant à lui offrir," (We have all been moved by her powerful performances. Francophone cinema loses, too early, a talented actress with so much more to give.)
Beneath the glitz and glamor, Dequenne openly battled her illness, focusing on her health and canceling obligations. Despite her struggles, she made appearances at events like Cannes, where she presented her final film, aptly titled "Survive." She was seen smiling on the red carpet, showcasing her resilience, though the toll of her illness was evident with her short and thinning hair.
Jean-Pierre Dardenne, who directed her breakout role, paid heartfelt tribute, stating, "Emilie, c'était la joie de vivre. L'enthousiasme permanent pour jouer... c'était une femme généreuse, gentille, rayonnante," (Emilie was joy for life. Her constant enthusiasm for acting... she was generous, kind, and radiant.) His comments emphasized not just her talent but also her vibrant spirit.
Her colleagues expressed their sorrow and admiration through social media, with actress Leïla Bekhti calling her "une grande dame, grande âme, grande actrice, une reine," (a great lady, great soul, great actress, a queen.) Many fondly recalled her gentleness, strength, talent, and beauty during their tributes. The shared memories highlighted the depth of her impact on both her contemporaries and fans alike.
With increasing health challenges, Dequenne confided to TF1 after her cancer worsened, acknowledging her grim prognosis. She shared the heart-wrenching realization of not living "aussi longtemps que prévu" (as long as expected), which illustrated the harsh reality faced by many battling terminal illnesses.
She devoted her time to spreading awareness and providing support for those affected by similar struggles, believing it was important to show others facing battles with cancer they are not alone. Reflecting on this public fight, she noted, "On peut vivre des moments beaux, forts, magiques, en dépit de la maladie, c’est possible" (We can live beautiful, strong, magical moments, regardless of the illness, it is possible).
Émilie Dequenne's legacy is defined not only by her impressive filmography but also by her courage and openness about her battle with cancer. Her passing has left significant emotional scars across the artistic community. It marks the sudden end of what was seen as a flourishing and impactful career. She was admired widely, respected deeply, and loved generously. Through her art and life, she made her mark, one the film industry—and her fans—will forever cherish.