Getty ImagesFrench film legend Alain Delon has died at the age of 88.
The actor was a star of the golden age of French cinema, known for his tough-guy roles in hits such as “The Samurai” and “Borsalino.”
“He died peacefully at his home in Duchy, surrounded by his three children and family,” said a statement issued by AFP.
Delong has been in poor health in recent years and has become almost a recluse. His family breakdown recently made headlines in France.
Delon, once hailed as the most beautiful man in cinema, starred in 1960s hits including “Leopard” and “Rocco and His Brother.”
From the 1990s onwards, his film appearances became increasingly rare, but he remained a regular in celebrity columns.
In total, he appeared in more than 90 films during his career.
His family released a statement saying: “It is with deep sadness that Alain Fabian, Anushka, Anthony and (his dog) Lubo announce the passing of their father.
“He died peacefully at his home in Duhey, surrounded by his three children and family.”
“Le Parisien” called Delon “a legend in the cinema”, while “Liberation” described him as “a leading figure in the cinema, a symbol of dark masculinity, an actor with crazy charm”.
DeLong’s last public appearance was when he received the Honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2019.
At the event, he gave an emotional speech that seemed to be a farewell to the film.
Getty ImagesHis family breakdown recently made headlines in France.
His three children aired their mutual grievances to the media in a series of insults, accusations, lawsuits and secret recordings.
These included disagreements over his medical treatment.
In April, a judge placed DeLong under “enhanced supervision,” meaning he no longer has full freedom to manage his assets.
Delon also made headlines in February when French police seized 72 guns and 3,000 rounds of ammunition from his home. Prosecutors said he did not have a gun license.
A shooting range was also discovered in his Duchy-Moncobon mansion.
BBC News has contacted DeLonghi’s representatives.
