Nathalie Baye, a renowned figure in French cinema, has passed away at the age of 77, according to reports from French media outlets. Her death was confirmed by her family, who stated she died at her home in Paris on Friday evening.

President Emmanuel Macron commemorated the beloved actress, describing her as “an actress with whom we loved, dreamed and grew up.” He highlighted her consistent presence in French cinema throughout recent decades, spanning collaborations with directors like François Truffaut and Tonie Marshall. Macron’s tribute emphasized her distinctive voice, smile, and grace, noting her impact on generations of French filmgoers.

Baye’s extensive career encompassed approximately 80 films, beginning with significant roles in the early 1970s. Her talent was recognized four times with acting awards at the Césars, France’s prestigious film awards, often considered the nation’s equivalent to the Oscars.

Born in Normandy in 1948 into a family of artists, Baye initially pursued a career in dance before transitioning to acting. She rose to become one of France’s most acclaimed actresses, working with influential directors of the French New Wave, including François Truffaut and Jean-Luc Godard.

Later in her career, Baye expanded her work to include international productions. Notably, she appeared in Steven Spielberg’s 2002 film “Catch Me If You Can,” portraying the mother of Leonardo DiCaprio’s character. More recently, audiences saw her in a self-parody role in the acclaimed series “Call My Agent!” alongside her daughter, actress Laura Smet. She also featured as a French aristocrat in the second “Downton Abbey” film.

The family’s statement indicated that Baye’s death followed a diagnosis of Lewy body dementia, a neurodegenerative condition. The French news agency AFP reported these details.