Cannes award-winning actress Émilie Dequenne has tragically passed away due to cancer at the young age of 43. Recognized for her remarkable talent, Dequenne first became a household name in 1999 when she won the Cannes Film Festival's best actress award for her role in "Rosetta." Directed by the Dardenne brothers, the film showcased her skills at just 18 years old and won the prestigious Palme d'Or.
Following her early success, Dequenne continued to shine, receiving a second Cannes award in 2012 for "À Perdre la Raison" and a Cesar award in 2021 for "Les Choses Qu'on Dit, les Choses Qu'on Fait." Apart from her significant contributions to French-language cinema, she also gained recognition on television, notably in the BBC's drama "The Missing," portraying Laurence Relaud alongside James Nesbitt.
In a heartfelt tribute, Luc Dardenne spoke of Dequenne's impact on the film "Rosetta," noting how her natural talent helped bring the entire cast together. As her career progressed, she remained a vibrant presence on the red carpet, even returning to Cannes last year.
Dequenne openly shared her health struggles, revealing her fight against adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), a rare type of cancer. In a poignant Instagram post for World Cancer Day in February, she highlighted the challenges of her battle, stating, "What a tough fight! And we don't choose..."
Her passing has prompted tributes from fans and colleagues alike, including French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati, who remarked on the early loss of a gifted actress. Dequenne's legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations in the world of cinema.
