Summary (tl;dr)

Béatrice Picard, a highly esteemed Quebec actress known for a career spanning over 75 years and as the French voice of Marge Simpson, has passed away at the age of 96.

Essential Background

Born in Montreal in 1929, Béatrice Picard began her artistic journey in radio in 1947, quickly transitioning to television in the early 1950s where she gained prominence in series like "Le Survenant" (as Angélina Desmarais), "Cré Basile," and "Symphorien" (as Madame Bellemare). For over three decades, from 1990 to 2023, she also lent her distinctive voice to Marge Simpson in the Quebec French adaptation of "The Simpsons." Picard was a prolific stage actress, performing in approximately 40 plays at Théâtre Duceppe, and was recognized with significant honors including being made a Member of the Order of Canada in 1989 and an Officer of the National Order of Quebec in 2012. She was also actively involved in social causes, notably serving as a provincial godmother and spokesperson for Les Petits Frères, an organization assisting isolated seniors.

The Full Story

Béatrice Picard died on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the age of 96, with the news confirmed by her family and shared by Théâtre Duceppe on social media. Her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across Canada, with many public figures, including Quebec Premier François Legault, acknowledging her indelible mark on Quebec culture. Just weeks before her death, in November 2025, Picard had shared an update with her public, expressing her continued enthusiasm for life and teasing a new mysterious project, demonstrating her unwavering passion for her craft even as she approached her 97th birthday.

Why It Matters

Béatrice Picard's death signifies the loss of an icon who profoundly shaped Quebec's cultural landscape for nearly eight decades. Her extensive body of work, spanning radio, television, film, theatre, and voice acting, touched multiple generations, from her early dramatic and comedic roles to her globally recognized voice work as Marge Simpson. Her career exemplifies dedication and versatility, leaving an enduring legacy for artists and audiences alike, and her commitment to both her art and social causes makes her a revered figure in Canadian entertainment.

Geographic Location

• Montreal, Quebec, Canada (birthplace, and central to her career in radio, television, film, and theatre)
• Quebec, Canada (region where she built her extensive acting career and cultural impact)