Arabic version: أيقونة السينما الفرنسية ناتالي باي تمرح في 77

Nathalie Baye, a celebrated figure in French and Hollywood cinema, has died at the age of 77, her family announced on Saturday. Baye, known for her roles in approximately 80 films, passed away at her home in Paris due to Lewy body dementia.

According to The Guardian, Baye’s illustrious career spanned decades, featuring collaborations with renowned French directors in the 1970s and 80s. She won the best actress César award four times, including three consecutive wins from 1981 to 1983.

Baye gained international recognition for her performance as Leonardo DiCaprio’s mother in Steven Spielberg’s 2002 film, Catch Me If You Can. She also appeared in the sequel to Downton Abbey, A New Era, and worked with acclaimed filmmaker Xavier Dolan on projects such as Laurence Anyways and It’s Only the End of the World.

Born in 1948 in Normandy to bohemian parents who were both painters, Baye overcame early struggles with dyslexia to pursue a successful career in acting. Her notable performances included a role in Jean-Luc Godard’s 1980 film Every Man for Himself and a celebrated role as a sex worker in the 1982 thriller La Balance, which earned her a César award. She also won the best actress prize at the Venice Film Festival in 1999 for Une liaison pornographique.

Baye’s personal life included a five-year relationship with rock singer Johnny Hallyday, and their daughter, Laura Smet, is also an actress. Baye’s legacy in cinema remains significant, marking her as one of France’s most cherished talents.