Marc Messier, a notable personality in Quebec’s cultural scene, has passed away after a short illness at the age of 78.
His agency has confirmed the news of his death.
Messier’s acting career was distinguished by iconic performances across film, television, and theatre.
“Cherished by audiences, Marc Messier connected with every generation through his compassion, humor, and the richness of his acting,” stated Agence Goodwin.
He co-created the play Broue, which he showcased over 3,000 times to an audience exceeding 3,300,000 over a span of more than 35 years, partnering with his long-term collaborators, Marcel Gauthier and Michel Côté.
The play, which consists of a series of sketches, was where Messier first gained fame in 1979. It humorously depicted the lives of everyday men gathering at a pub to discuss their troubles over a beer.
Archival image of Michel Côté, Marcel Gauthier, and Marc Messier performing the song Broue on the show Superstar in 1987. (Radio-Canada)
Beyond theatre, Messier was also highly regarded for his television work, which began with his significant role in Lance et compte.
He continued to achieve success on television with his character Réjean in La Petite Vie.
Messier also made a significant impact with his part in the cult classic film series Les Boys.
Marc Messier portraying Marc Gagnon in the series “Lance et compte.” (Communications Claude Héroux)
Tributes began to emerge on Tuesday, including a message from Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette.
“I was deeply saddened to hear of Marc Messier’s passing,” Fréchette shared on X.
“Quebec has lost an extraordinary actor and a tremendous artist who has left an indelible mark on our culture and the hearts of many generations. Through theatre, film, and television, he presented us with characters that have become unforgettable.
Fréchette expressed that Messier was one of her favorite actors, possessing a “rare gift for making us laugh, moving us, and uniting us.”
“His body of work and his legacy will always endure in our collective memory.”
Fréchette has requested that the Quebec flag on the central tower of the Parliament Building be lowered to half-mast during the actor’s funeral.
Prime Minister Mark Carney also conveyed his sympathies Tuesday afternoon, stating on X that Messier “has left his imprint on the theatrical, television, and cinema works of an entire generation in Quebec.”
“As we come to terms with his passing, my thoughts are with his family and all who cherished him,” Carney noted.
Messier is survived by his immediate family, including his three children.
