French film icon Alain Delon dies at 88

Alain Delon, the renowned French actor who became a global icon through his work with legendary directors and his enigmatic screen presence, has died at the age of 88. Delon’s career spanned over six decades, during which he starred in some of the most revered films in European cinema, including Rocco and His Brothers, The Leopard, and The Samurai.

Delon’s early rise to fame was marked by collaborations with acclaimed filmmakers such as Luchino Visconti and Michelangelo Antonioni. His portrayal of complex characters with a signature brooding style earned him both critical acclaim and a massive following. However, his career was also marred by controversies, including his alleged connections to criminal figures and inflammatory public statements that alienated parts of the public.

Despite these controversies, Delon received numerous accolades throughout his life, including France’s prestigious Legion of Honour and a lifetime achievement award from the Berlin Film Festival. His enduring influence on cinema was recognized once more in 2019 when the Cannes Film Festival awarded him a Palme d’Honneur, though the decision sparked backlash from feminist groups due to his past remarks.

Delon’s later years saw a decline in the critical success of his films, and he officially retired from cinema in 1997, though he continued to make occasional appearances. His final major role was in the 2008 film *Asterix at the Olympic Games*, where he played Julius Caesar in a self-referential performance that poked fun at his public persona.

Beyond the silver screen, Delon’s legacy lives on through his influence on artists and filmmakers worldwide, with figures like Quentin Tarantino and Sofia Coppola citing him as an inspiration. His iconic status is further cemented by the continued use of his image in advertising, notably for Dior cologne.

As he looked back on his career during his acceptance of the Palme d’Honneur, Delon reflected on the challenge of sustaining success in the film industry, remarking that while he had lasted for 62 years, the hardest part would be saying goodbye.

[Source: France 24]