What happened to Michel Côté?

Michel Côté was reported dead by his family on May 29, 2023. No cause of death was disclosed, but it is known that he died at age 72.

He is a Canadian actor who played the lead role in the film Cruising Bar and was nominated for a Genie Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in 1990. He also played the lead role in the film C. R. A. Z. Y and won a Genie in the same category for this film in 2005.

Côté revived his Cruising Bar characters in the sequel film Cruising Bar 2 in 2008. He received a Jutra Award nomination for Best Actor at the 11th Jutra Awards.

Before that, Côté taught introductory acting and improvisation at the Option Theatre in Ste. Therese until 1977. He began performing in the play Broue at the theatre; the play was intended to have a one-month run, but it didn’t happen.

Tributes have been pouring in across several social media platforms after his death was announced.

“We are saddened by the death of Michel Côté, a pillar of Quebec culture. My thoughts are with Mr. Côté’s family and loved ones,” Jean-Yves Duclos wrote.

“Michel, Quebec loved you for your humor, your kindness, and your sincerity and your extraordinary talent. My thoughts are with your family and your many friends. Tonight, I’ll have a nice cold beer in your honor!” Minister of Canadian Heritage and Quebec Lieutenant, Pablo Rodriguez also wrote.

“We are saddened to learn of the passing of Michel Côté, an iconic figure whose humor and talent have marked Quebec forever,” Canadian Montreal Hockey team.