Belgian actress Émilie Dequenne, best known for her breakthrough role in Rosetta (1999), has passed away at the age of 43 after battling a rare form of cancer, adrenocortical carcinoma. Her 
passing marks a significant loss to European cinema, where she left an indelible mark with her compelling performances across a wide range of films.
A Star is Born: The Rosetta Breakthrough
Born on August 29, 1981, in Belœil, Belgium, Dequenne began her journey in the performing arts from a young age. She gained worldwide recognition in 1999 when she starred in Rosetta, directed by the Dardenne brothers. Her powerful portrayal of a young woman struggling to survive in poverty won her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival, catapulting her into international fame.
A Diverse and Celebrated Career
Following her Cannes triumph, Dequenne built an impressive filmography spanning multiple genres. She starred in the historical action film Brotherhood of the Wolf (2001), 
the psychological thriller (2009), and the acclaimed drama Our Children (2012), which won her another Best Actress award in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard section.
In recent years, she continued to shine in European cinema, including her role in Lukas Dhont’s Close (2022), which received an Academy Award nomination for Best International Feature Film.
A Battle with Cancer and Public Strength
In October 2023, Dequenne revealed her diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma, a rare and aggressive cancer affecting the adrenal glands. She remained open about her battle, sharing her journey with fans and using her platform to raise awareness. Despite a brief remission, she experienced a relapse in late 2024, ultimately succumbing to the disease in March 2025.
A Lasting Legacy
Dequenne’s influence on European cinema remains profound. Her dedication to complex, challenging roles and her naturalistic performances earned her widespread acclaim. Her career was defined not just by awards but by the authenticity she brought to each character she portrayed.
She is survived by her daughter, Milla, from her previous relationship with DJ Alexandre Savarese, and her husband, French actor Michel Ferracci, whom she married in 2014.
Remembering Émilie Dequenne
Émilie Dequenne’s passing is a great loss to the world of cinema, but her performances will continue to inspire generations to come. From her unforgettable debut in Rosetta to her recent work in Close, she leaves behind a legacy of powerful storytelling and unforgettable performances.
Her impact on Belgian and European cinema will not be forgotten, and she will forever be remembered as an actress who brought depth, intensity, and authenticity to every role she played.
Read More:
