Quebecois actor Raymond Bouchard, known for his prolific career spanning over 50 years in television, film, and theatre, has died at the age of 80. The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike.
Bouchard’s passing was announced on Saturday, February 22, 2026, and quickly resonated throughout the Quebec arts community. He was particularly celebrated for his role in the 2003 film La Grande Séduction, a beloved Canadian comedy.
Fellow actor Benoît Brière, who co-starred with Bouchard in La Grande Séduction, remembered him as “an incredible human being.” Brière shared his recollections of working with Bouchard, describing his serious yet lighthearted approach to his craft, his genuine smile, and his infectious laughter on set. “Beyond the work, he was someone who was perfectly delightful,” Brière said. “You could feel the pleasure he had in acting.”
Throughout his extensive career, Bouchard portrayed over 80 memorable characters. He first appeared on screen in 1978 in the television series Race de monde, created by Victor-Lévy Beaulieu. He went on to receive a Gémeau Award for his performance in L’or et le papier (1989) and also appeared in popular series such as Scoop (1990), Annie et ses hommes (2002), and Lance et compte (2002). His film credits include La Florida (1993) in addition to La Grande Séduction.
Actress Brigitte Morel, a longtime friend and former partner of Bouchard, recently shared a heartfelt tribute, describing their relationship as evolving into a “deep friendship that even death will not break.” Morel’s tribute, published on February 23, 2026, celebrates “this magnificently human human being.” 7 Jours reports that Morel’s lengthy statement also expresses gratitude for the warm messages received since Bouchard’s death.
Radio-Canada is honoring Bouchard’s legacy with a broadcast of Raymond Bouchard: voici comme je suis, offering viewers a deeper look into the life and work of the celebrated actor. Radio-Canada describes Bouchard as “a giant, unheard of, human, funny and touching.” The broadcast adds to the growing number of homages from across the Quebec entertainment industry.
