Belgium has a surprisingly rich film history with actresses who have left their mark not only nationally but also internationally. From arthouse and drama to Hollywood blockbusters—these women have proven that Belgium is a breeding ground for immense talent.
Here are the 10 best Belgian actresses of all time.
1. Natacha Régnier – The muse of European cinema
Natacha Régnier broke through internationally with her beautiful, understated role in La Vie Rêvée des Anges (1998), for which she won the Best Actress award at Cannes.
With her natural, subtle acting, she became a favorite of the European arthouse scene, with films like L’Ennemi public n°1 (2008) and The Dancer (2000).
Her authenticity and emotional depth make her one of the most respected Belgian actresses ever.
2. Cécile de France – The Belgian actress who conquered Hollywood
Cécile de France is one of the few Belgian actresses to achieve international success.
She starred in French films like L’Auberge Espagnole (2002), Quand j’étais chanteur (2006), and Möbius (2013), but also in Hollywood movies like Clint Eastwood’s Hereafter (2010).
Her charisma, playful energy, and dramatic power make her a top-tier actress.
3. Émilie Dequenne – The queen of Belgian drama
Émilie Dequenne became a global star at a young age with her role in Rosetta (1999), which won the Palme d’Or.
She went on to star in powerful films like À perdre la raison (2012) and Pas son genre (2014), consistently proving herself as one of Belgium’s most versatile actresses.
With her profound, emotional performances, she remains one of the greatest Belgian actresses of all time.
4. Marie Gillain – Belgian with an international career
Marie Gillain broke through at age 16 with Mon père, ce héros (1991), alongside Gérard Depardieu.
She later became one of the most popular French and Belgian actresses, with films like L’Appât (1995), Le Bossu (1997), and Ni pour ni contre (bien au contraire) (2002).
Her charisma and classic beauty made her a favorite in French cinema.
5. Lubna Azabal – The most powerful actress of her generation
Lubna Azabal is one of the most impressive Belgian actresses of the 21st century.
She made waves with intense performances in films like Incendies (2010), Corps étrangers (2017), and Adam (2019).
With her expressive eyes and raw emotion, she always leaves a lasting impact.
6. Deborah François – From Belgian talent to international star
François broke through with her impressive role in L’Enfant (2005), a film by the Dardenne brothers.
She later starred in successful French films like Le Premier Jour du reste de ta vie (2008) and Populaire (2012).
With her subtle yet intense acting, she’s a staple of European cinema.
7. Veerle Baetens – The star of Belgium’s biggest films
Veerle Baetens became world-famous for her unforgettable role in The Broken Circle Breakdown (2012).
She also proved her acting skills in TV series like Tabula Rasa and Cheyenne & Lola, earning numerous awards.
With her emotional intensity and versatility, she’s one of the greatest Belgian actresses of her generation.
8. Yolande Moreau – The actress who always surprises
Moreau is a unique actress who perfectly balances drama and comedy.
She won two César Awards for her role in Quand la mer monte (2004) and was praised for performances in Séraphine (2008) and Mammuth (2010).
With her expressive facial expressions and natural style, she always stands out.
9. Pauline Étienne – The rising star of Belgian cinema
Pauline Étienne broke through with powerful roles in La Religieuse (2013) and Tokyo Fiancée (2014).
With her subtle, understated acting and undeniable presence, she is seen as one of the greatest talents of her generation.
She also proved her versatility in TV series like Into the Night (2020).
10. Anne Coesens – The actress who always delivers
Anne Coesens is one of the most reliable Belgian actresses, with a career spanning arthouse and mainstream films.
She starred in strong dramas like Illégal (2010) and Duelles (2018), proving she can portray any role convincingly.
With her calm yet intense style, she’s an essential force in Belgian cinema.
