France bid farewell to film icon Alain Delon on Monday, honoring the actor who left a lasting mark on cinema but was also known for his controversial personal life. Delon, who passed away at 88, had requested a private farewell and wished to be buried on his property in Douchy, France, near his beloved dogs.
Though Delon had expressed his desire for no national memorial, local officials had agreed to his wishes, according to Christophe Hurault. His children—Anthony, Anouchka, and Alain-Fabien—who had previously been at odds over his medical care, now face the task of planning his funeral. They must decide whether it will be a private affair or open to the wider film community.
Delon’s death dominated French headlines, with many newspapers featuring large portraits of him in his prime. Le Figaro’s front page headline, “The Last Samurai,” nods to one of his iconic roles in Jean-Pierre Melville’s 1967 film “Le Samourai.”
Delon’s work in the 1960s and 70s earned him critical acclaim, cementing his status as a key figure of French cinema’s golden age. Fellow actress Brigitte Bardot described Delon as leaving a “huge void,” while Nathalie Baye, who acted alongside him in “Our Story,” noted his charm despite his reserved nature.
French President Emmanuel Macron hailed Delon as a “French monument” whose roles captured the imagination of many. His death was covered extensively by global media, with outlets like the New York Times, Washington Post, and The Guardian reflecting on his mesmerizing presence and cinematic impact.
In Germany, Spiegel likened Delon to “Europe’s James Dean,” while Italy’s Il Corriere della Sera called him “unique and immortal.” Fans in Japan also mourned his loss, with many recalling his enduring appeal.
Despite his fame, Delon’s personal life was marked by controversy. Accusations of domestic violence and his political stances, including support for far-right figures and controversial views, stirred public debate. His 2019 Cannes lifetime achievement award was also met with criticism.
In his later years, Delon lived in relative seclusion, and his final years were marred by disputes among his children and allegations against his assistant. As Delon’s fans laid flowers outside his home, many reflected on the sense of loss and nostalgia for an era they felt was passing with him.
Marie Arnold, who visited to pay her respects, summed up the sentiment: “In our minds, these icons are eternal. It’s a part of our youth that is gone.”
