The sad news was announced through a statement from her loved ones to the AFP. Nathalie Baye passed away at her home on Friday, April 17. The actress had been battling a neurodegenerative disease, Lewy body disease, for some years. This condition had previously claimed the life of Catherine Laborde. The French cinema industry immediately paid tribute to the actress, who was celebrated during her career spanning over five decades. André Dussollier expressed his grief at losing his “favorite partner“, while Richard Berry, who had worked with Nathalie Baye in La Baule-les-Pins, also remembered her on Instagram.
Among the countless tributes, Laura Smet, Baye’s only daughter, shared her pain on Instagram, saying, “Mom. I lost half of my heart. She was the best mother in the world. I’m sending you these words without really believing it yet.” Shocked and saddened, Romane Bohringer also remembered her experiences working with Baye and how her presence left a lasting impact on her.
The director of the movie J’ai épousé une ombre initially did not want Nathalie Baye for the role. However, after meeting and discussing the film with her, he acknowledged her talent and ultimately cast her in the lead role.
Romane Bohringer’s post can be found here.
