The film industry mourns the untimely death of Émilie Dequenne, the acclaimed Belgian actress known for her breathtaking performance in the groundbreaking film “Rosetta.” Dequenne passed away at a hospital in Villejuif, France, at the age of 43 on Sunday, following a courageous battle with adrenal cancer. Her passing was confirmed by Marie-Laure Calmette, an assistant to her longtime agent, Danielle Gain.

Émilie Dequenne first captured the world’s attention at just 17 years old when she took home the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in "Rosetta." The film, directed by the renowned Dardenne brothers, follows the struggles of a working-class teenager determined to find and maintain employment. It became a cinematic sensation, garnering the coveted Palme d'Or, the highest accolade bestowed at Cannes.

In a heartfelt interview on the French television show “Sept à Huit” in December 2024, Dequenne bravely opened up about her cancer diagnosis, shedding light on her personal journey and resilience.

Throughout her illustrious career, Ms. Dequenne starred in nearly 50 films, earning several prestigious awards, including the César for Best Supporting Actress for her work in “Love Affair(s)” (Les Choses Qu’on Dit, les Choses Qu’on Fait), a film directed by Emmanuel Mouret. Some of her most memorable performances came in critically acclaimed works, including the gut-wrenching drama “Our Children” (À perdre la raison), directed by Joachim Lafosse.

Luc Dardenne, who directed Émilie in "Rosetta," reminisced about her undeniable talent. “On her first day in front of the camera, she united our whole team,” he revealed, emphasizing her magnetic presence that brought the production to life.

Born on August 29, 1981, in Beloeil, Belgium, Dequenne pursued her passion for acting by studying drama at the Académie de Musique et des Arts de la Parole de Baudour. She began her career with a local theater company, eventually rising to prominence in the film world.

Dequenne leaves behind her husband, Michel Ferracci, and a daughter, Milla Savarese, whom she shared with her former partner, Belgian DJ Alexandre Savarese.

In May of this year, she celebrated the 25th anniversary of “Rosetta” at the Cannes Film Festival while her cancer was in remission, a powerful testament to her spirit. She also made waves with her latest film, “Survive,” released last year, and recently starred in “TKT,” a poignant depiction of bullying set in a Belgian high school.

Fans and colleagues alike are devastated by the loss of such a bright light in cinema. Remembered for her talent and tenacity, Émilie Dequenne’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers and actors.