Quebec actor Marc Messier dead at age 78

Marc Messier, a prominent figure in Quebec’s cultural landscape, has died following a brief illness. He was 78 years old.

His agency confirmed his passing.

Messier had a notable acting career marked by memorable roles in film, television and theatre.

“Loved by audiences, Marc Messier touched every generation through his humanity, his humour, and the depth of his performances,” Agence Goodwin wrote in a statement.

Messier co-authored the play Broue, which he performed over 3,000 times to more than 3,300,000 spectators for just over 35 years. He did so alongside his longtime collaborators, Marcel Gauthier and Michel Côté.

The play, based on a series of sketches, is how Messier first gained recognition in 1979. It was a comedy about ordinary men hanging out at a tavern, sharing their misfortunes over a beer.

In addition to his extensive career in theatre, Messier was renowned for his work in television, starting with his first major role in Lance et compte.

His television success continued with his portrayal of Réjean in La Petite Vie.

Messier also left a lasting mark with his role in the cult film franchise Les Boys.

Condolences began pouring in Tuesday, including from Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette.

“It is with immense sadness that I learned of Marc Messier’s passing,” Fréchette wrote on X.

“Quebec loses an exceptional actor, an immense artist who has marked our culture and the hearts of several generations. In theater, cinema, and television, he offered us characters that have become unforgettable.

Fréchette said Messier was one of her favourite actors, with his “rare talent for making us laugh, moving us, and bringing us together.”

“His body of work and his legacy will continue to live on in our collective memory.”

Messier is survived by his immediate family, including his three children.