French actor Pierre Deny, best known internationally for his role in the hit Netflix series Emily in Paris, has died at the age of 69 after battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to French media reports.
Deny passed away on Monday, May 25, following what his family described as a rapid progression of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. His daughters confirmed the news in a statement shared with French news agency AFP.
“It is with deep emotion that we announce the death of Pierre Deny on Monday following a rapid ALS,” the statement read.
ALS is a rare neurological disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, gradually affecting movement, speech, swallowing and breathing. The condition has also impacted several notable public figures over the years, including Stephen Hawking, Roberta Flack and Stephen Hillenburg.
In Emily in Paris, Deny portrayed Louis de Léon, the powerful CEO of luxury conglomerate JVMA and father of Nicolas de Léon, played by Paul Forman. His character appeared in three episodes of the romantic comedy-drama led by Lily Collins, with his final appearance airing during Season 4 in 2024.
Beyond the Netflix series, Deny built a long and respected acting career in French theater, film and television. Over several decades, he appeared in more than 100 productions, including Une Femme d’Honneur, Tomorrow Is Ours and Camping Paradise.
Meanwhile, Netflix recently confirmed that Emily in Paris, created by Darren Star, will conclude with its sixth and final season. Production is currently underway, with filming set to take place in Greece, Monaco and Paris.
“Making Emily in Paris with this extraordinary cast and crew has been the trip of a lifetime,” Star said in a recent statement. “We can’t wait to share this last chapter with you.”