Alain Delon, the renowned French actor who captivated millions with his powerful performances and enigmatic screen presence, has died at the age of 88. His three children confirmed his passing on Sunday. Delon had been in declining health since suffering a stroke in 2019 and had lived a mostly private life on his estate in Douchy, located in France’s Val de Loire region.
French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Delon, calling him a “giant of French culture.” Macron posted on social media, stating, “Alain Delon has played legendary roles and made the world dream. With his unforgettable presence, he touched our lives deeply. He was more than just a star; he was a French monument.”
Delon rose to fame with unforgettable roles in films such as Luchino Visconti’s Rocco and His Brothers (1960) and The Leopard (1963). His work in Jean-Pierre Melville’s Le Samourai (1967), in which he portrayed a solitary hitman, solidified his place as a symbol of French cinema. With his striking blue eyes and brooding intensity, Delon became an international heartthrob, admired both in France and abroad, especially in Japan.
Despite his global appeal, Delon never achieved the same level of success in Hollywood as he did in Europe, though he worked with iconic American stars like Burt Lancaster. His collaboration with fellow French actor Jean-Paul Belmondo in films such as Borsalino (1970) made him a household name in France, particularly during the 1970s, when he was a staple of the French box office.
Delon’s life, however, was not without controversy. He maintained close relationships with figures from the French underworld, which led to media scrutiny and public speculation, particularly after the infamous “Markovic Affair.” In 1968, his former bodyguard Stefan Markovic was found dead, leading to Delon’s interrogation, though he was later cleared of any involvement.
Born on November 8, 1935, just outside Paris, Delon had a turbulent childhood marked by his parents’ divorce and time in foster care. After a rebellious youth and a stint in the French Marines, he found his way into acting through a chance meeting at the Cannes Film Festival.
Off-screen, Delon was known for his business ventures, including branded cosmetics and horse racing, and for his outspoken views. Over the years, he sparked controversy for his comments on social issues, including his support for the death penalty and opposition to same-sex marriage. Delon was also linked to far-right politics, publicly supporting the National Front and maintaining a friendship with its founder, Jean-Marie Le Pen.
Delon’s personal life was as complex as his on-screen characters. He had high-profile relationships with actress Romy Schneider, singer Nico, and model Rosalie van Breemen, with whom he had two children. His private life occasionally made headlines, particularly in recent years when a family feud over his care became public. In April 2024, a judge placed Delon under “reinforced curatorship,” reflecting concerns over his health and well-being.
Despite the controversies, Delon remained a beloved figure in French cinema, with his last major public appearance being the receipt of an honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2019.
His passing marks the end of an era for French cinema, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances that have shaped the industry for decades.
