Émilie Dequenne, the acclaimed Belgian actress celebrated for her remarkable performance in “Rosetta,” has tragically passed away at the age of 43. Her family and agent confirmed that she succumbed to a rare form of cancer, known as adrenocortical carcinoma, in a Paris hospital.

Understanding Adrenocortical Carcinoma

Adrenocortical carcinoma, often referred to as adrenal cancer, originates in the adrenal glands located atop the kidneys. These small but vital glands produce hormones that regulate essential functions including metabolism and blood pressure.

This type of cancer is exceedingly rare, with approximately two cases reported annually per one million individuals, as noted by the National Cancer Institute. Early detection can lead to successful management through surgical intervention.

Émilie Dequenne’s Early Life and Education

Born on August 29, 1982, in Beloeil, Wallonia, Belgium, Dequenne began her journey in the performing arts at a young age. At 12, she started studying drama and continued her training at the Music & Spoken Word Academy. Her early experiences included being part of the La Relève Theater troupe before she gained prominence with her lead role in “Rosetta.”

A Glimpse into Her Career

Dequenne achieved international recognition at just 18 when she won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her compelling portrayal of a troubled teenager in “Rosetta.” The film also garnered the prestigious Palme d’Or in 1999.

Her impressive career continued with impactful roles, including her collaboration with iconic actress Catherine Deneuve in “The Girl on the Train” (2009), which tells the story of a woman who falsely claims to be a victim of an antisemitic attack. Dequenne’s talent was further recognized in 2012 when she received the Un Certain Regard actress prize at Cannes for her role in “Our Children,” a psychological drama inspired by real-life events.

Over the years, she earned several nominations for César Awards, culminating in a win for Best Supporting Actress in 2021 for her performance in the romantic comedy “Love Affair(s).” Most recently, she co-starred in “Close,” bringing her back to the Cannes stage in 2022.

Personal Life

Émilie Dequenne is survived by her husband, film director and producer Michel Ferracci, and their daughter, Milla Savarese. Her legacy endures through her impactful contributions to cinema, and she will be remembered for her remarkable talent and artistry.