Belgian Actress Émilie Dequenne Dies at 43 After Courageous Cancer Battle

The acclaimed star of 'Rosetta' and advocate for cancer awareness is remembered for her talent, resilience, and groundbreaking openness about her illness.

Émilie Dequenne passed away on March 16, 2025, from corticosurrénalome, a rare and aggressive adrenal gland cancer, at the age of 43.
Her breakout role in 'Rosetta' (1999) earned her the Best Actress award at Cannes, launching a prolific career spanning nearly 50 films and numerous accolades, including a César and multiple Magritte awards.
She publicly shared her cancer diagnosis in October 2023, using her platform to raise awareness and challenge stigmas surrounding the disease.
Her final public appearance was at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, where she celebrated the 25th anniversary of 'Rosetta' while in remission, before her cancer relapsed later that year.
Her funeral is scheduled for March 26, 2025, at the Père-Lachaise crematorium in Paris, with donations requested for cancer research in lieu of flowers.