Alain Delon, a renowned French and European cinema icon, died at the age of 88. Delon rose to prominence as one of France’s most memorable leading men, known for his striking appearance and ability to combine strength and appealing vulnerability.
On X Day, French President Emmanuel Macron referred to Delon as “a French monument.” Macron lauded Delon’s ability to perform legendary parts and create dreams, calling him sad, popular, and more than just a star.
Alain Delon’s children, Alain Fabien, Anouchka, Anthony, and his dog Loubo, issued a joint statement on Sunday, announcing his passing. They disclosed that Delon died quietly at home in Douchy, surrounded by his family. They asked for privacy during this trying period.
Alain Delon’s Film Career: From ‘Purple Noon’ to ‘The Leopard’
Alain Delon, born on November 8, 1935, in Sceaux near Paris, rose to international acclaim in the 1960s with films including “Purple Noon” (1960), “The Leopard” (1963), and “Le Samouraï” (1969). During his peak career in the 1960s and 1970s, he collaborated with renowned directors such as Luchino Visconti and Joseph Losey.
Alain Delon appeared in a number of Italian films, including Visconti’s “Rocco and His Brothers” (1961), which received the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival. His diverse career includes “Is Paris Burning?” (1966), “The Sinners” (1966), and “The Assassination of Trotsky” (1972).
Alain Delon eventually voiced disappointment with the film industry, criticising how commercialisation had ruined his cinematic ideals. Despite this, he remained busy, acting in a number of television films and temporarily serving as a judge for the Miss France contest before stepping down in 2013 owing to contentious utterances.
Despite the controversy, Delon was given the Palme d’Honneur at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival, sparking debate. At the banquet, he reminisced on his life, claiming that his career was his biggest source of pride.
Source: BBC
