Alain Delon, the legendary French actor known for his roles in iconic films such as Purple Noon and Rocco and His Brothers, has passed away at the age of 88. His family confirmed that Delon died on Sunday, August 18, at his home in Douchy-Montcorbon, France. Fans gathered outside his residence to pay their respects following the news of his death.
Delon’s family did not disclose the cause of death, but his son Anthony Delon revealed that the actor’s health had been deteriorating since he suffered a stroke in 2019. Delon was also diagnosed with lymphoma in 2022 and had been undergoing treatment.
Delon’s career spanned over 80 films, and he first rose to fame with his portrayal of the cunning Tom Ripley in Purple Noon (1960). His performance in Rocco and His Brothers further solidified his status as a major talent in international cinema. Despite his success, Delon’s life was often marked by controversy, including scandals related to his personal relationships and political affiliations.
Born in Sceaux, France, in 1935, Delon experienced a challenging childhood. His parents divorced when he was four, and he was placed in foster care. Later, he joined the military at 17 and served during the First Indochina War before returning to France in 1956. Delon’s film career began in 1957 when he was discovered at the Cannes Film Festival. Although he initially considered moving to Hollywood, he chose to stay in France after meeting filmmaker Yves Allégret, who cast him in his first film.
Delon’s performances in Purple Noon and Rocco and His Brothers garnered critical acclaim. He continued to collaborate with renowned directors, including Luchino Visconti, with whom he worked on The Leopard (1963). Throughout the 1960s, Delon appeared in both European and Hollywood films, though his Hollywood career was limited by his French accent.
In addition to his film work, Delon appeared in television series and recorded a duet with French singer Dalida in 1973. His personal life was often turbulent, marked by high-profile relationships and legal disputes. Despite these challenges, Delon remained a beloved figure in cinema.
In 2019, Delon was awarded an honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival in recognition of his contributions to cinema. While his selection was controversial due to his past statements and political views, Delon remained proud of his career and the life he led.
Reflecting on his life in a 2018 interview with British GQ, Delon expressed contentment with his choices, stating that he had no regrets about retiring, having lived an extraordinary life.
Alain Delon’s legacy as one of France’s most celebrated actors will endure, as his performances continue to captivate audiences around the world.