French screen icon Nathalie Baye, star of Day for Night and Catch Me If You Can, dies at 77 after battle with Lewy body dementia.
- April 28, 2026
AceShowbiz - Nathalie Baye, the esteemed French actress known for her roles in Day for Night and Catch Me If You Can, passed away at the age of 77. Her family confirmed she died Friday evening at her home in Paris due to complications from Lewy body dementia.
Born on July 6, 1948, in Mainneville, Normandy, Nathalie Baye trained at the prestigious Conservatoire national supérieur d'art dramatique in Paris. She began her film career in the early 1970s, quickly establishing herself as a significant presence in French cinema.
Over a career spanning more than five decades, Baye earned critical acclaim, winning four César Awards, France’s top film honors. In addition to her iconic performance in François Truffaut’s Day for Night, she appeared in international projects including Catch Me If You Can and the TV series Downton Abbey: A New Era.
Nathalie Baye leaves behind a legacy as one of France’s most respected and beloved actresses. Her family shared the news of her passing with Agence France-Presse, highlighting the challenges she faced with her illness.
Her contributions to cinema, both in France and internationally, remain celebrated by critics and audiences alike. Baye’s talent and dedication have left an indelible mark on the film industry.