30 Facts About Alain Delon

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Alain Delon, a name synonymous with French cinema, has a fascinating life story. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about his early years and how he began his illustrious career.

1. Born on November 8, 1935, in Sceaux, France, Delon had a turbulent childhood due to his parents' divorce.
2. He attended six different boarding schools, often getting expelled for his rebellious behavior.
3. Before acting, Delon served in the French Navy during the First Indochina War.
4. His good looks caught the attention of film producers, leading to his first film role in 1957's "Quand la femme s'en mêle."

Rise to Stardom

Delon's rise to fame was meteoric. His talent and charisma quickly made him a household name.

5. His breakthrough role came in 1960 with "Purple Noon," where he played Tom Ripley.
6. Delon starred in "Rocco and His Brothers" in 1960, solidifying his status as a leading man.
7. In 1963, he appeared in "The Leopard," directed by Luchino Visconti, which won the Palme d'Or at Cannes.
8. He worked with renowned director Jean-Pierre Melville in "Le Samouraï" (1967), a film that became a cult classic.

Personal Life and Relationships

Delon's personal life has been as captivating as his on-screen roles. His relationships often made headlines.

9. He was engaged to actress Romy Schneider, whom he met on the set of "Christine" in 1958.
10. Delon married Nathalie Barthélémy in 1964, and they had a son, Anthony Delon.
11. His relationship with Mireille Darc, a French actress, lasted for 15 years.
12. Delon has four children: Anthony, Anouchka, Alain-Fabien, and Ari Boulogne.

International Success

Delon's appeal wasn't confined to France; he became an international star.

13. He starred in the American film "Once a Thief" (1965) alongside Ann-Margret.
14. Delon worked with Japanese director Masahiro Shinoda in "The Assassin" (1967).
15. He appeared in the Italian film "The Sicilian Clan" (1969), which was a huge success.
16. Delon received the César Award for Best Actor for his role in "Notre Histoire" (1984).

Business Ventures

Beyond acting, Delon ventured into various business endeavors.

17. He launched his own brand of cigarettes, "Alain Delon," in the 1970s.
18. Delon also created a line of sunglasses and watches under his name.
19. He founded a production company, Adel Productions, in 1964.
20. Delon invested in several restaurants and nightclubs in Paris.

Later Career and Legacy

Even in his later years, Delon continued to make an impact in the film industry.

21. He starred in "The Return of Casanova" (1992), showcasing his enduring talent.
22. Delon received an Honorary Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival in 1995.
23. In 2008, he was awarded the Legion of Honour, France's highest civilian distinction.
24. Delon announced his retirement from acting in 2017, leaving behind a legacy of over 80 films.

Interesting Tidbits

Some lesser-known facts about Delon add more color to his already vibrant persona.

25. He was friends with legendary singer Edith Piaf.
26. Delon has a passion for painting and has a significant art collection.
27. He is fluent in French, Italian, and English.
28. Delon has a keen interest in horse racing and owns several racehorses.
29. He was once considered for the role of James Bond but turned it down.
30. Delon has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing his status as a global icon.

Final Glimpse at Alain Delon's Life

Alain Delon's life is a tapestry of fascinating moments. From his early days in France to becoming a global icon, his journey is nothing short of remarkable. Known for his striking looks and undeniable talent, Delon has left an indelible mark on cinema. His roles in classics like "Le Samouraï" and "Rocco and His Brothers" showcase his versatility and depth as an actor. Beyond the screen, Delon's personal life, filled with highs and lows, adds another layer to his intriguing persona. Whether it's his friendships with other legends or his ventures into business, Delon's story is rich with interesting facts. As we reflect on these 30 facts, it's clear that Alain Delon is more than just a movie star; he's a cultural icon whose legacy will continue to inspire and captivate for generations to come.