Alain Delon's Success and Achievements in Timeline

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Alain Delon

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Alain Delon. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Alain Delon is a French actor, producer, screenwriter, singer, and businessman recognized as a major cultural and cinematic figure of the 20th century. Rising to prominence in the late 1950s, he became a leading European actor and international sex symbol. Delon's style, appearance, and iconic roles cemented his enduring popularity and status as a significant figure in French culture.

1959: Critical Acclaim for 'Women Are Weak'

In 1959, Alain Delon received critical acclaim for his role in the film 'Women Are Weak', marking an early success in his career.

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1959: Lead Role in 'Women Are Weak'

In 1959, Alain Delon was given the lead role in the comedy 'Women Are Weak', which was a big hit in France and his first film seen in America. He made personal appearances in New York to promote the movie.

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1960: International Recognition

In 1960, Alain Delon gained international recognition for his roles in René Clément's 'Plein Soleil' (released as 'Purple Noon' in the US) and Luchino Visconti's 'Rocco and His Brothers'. His portrayal of Tom Ripley in 'Purple Noon' was highly praised.

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1960: Roles in 'Purple Noon' and 'Rocco and His Brothers'

In 1960, Alain Delon garnered further critical acclaim for his performances in 'Purple Noon' and 'Rocco and His Brothers', solidifying his status as a leading actor.

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1962: Role in 'L'Eclisse'

In 1962, Alain Delon starred in the film 'L'Eclisse', directed by Michelangelo Antonioni, adding to his repertoire of critically acclaimed performances.

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1963: "Delon's Method" for 'Any Number Can Win'

In 1963, Alain Delon secured the role in 'Any Number Can Win' and negotiated a deal to take the film's distribution rights in certain countries instead of a straight salary. This arrangement, known as "Delon's method," proved highly profitable.

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1963: Roles in 'The Leopard' and 'Any Number Can Win'

In 1963, Alain Delon starred in 'The Leopard' and 'Any Number Can Win', both of which contributed to his growing international recognition.

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1964: Role in 'The Black Tulip'

In 1964, Alain Delon starred in 'The Black Tulip', adding another notable film to his career.

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1965: Delon's Reflection on "Delon's method"

In 1965, Alain Delon claimed that "no one else has tried it since and made money" after using the "Delon's method" in 1963.

1967: Roles in 'The Last Adventure' and 'Le Samouraï'

In 1967, Alain Delon starred in 'The Last Adventure' and 'Le Samouraï', both films further cementing his status as a prominent actor.

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1968: Role in 'The Girl on a Motorcycle'

In 1968, Alain Delon appeared in 'The Girl on a Motorcycle', expanding his range of film roles.

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1969: Role in 'La Piscine'

In 1969, Alain Delon starred in 'La Piscine', continuing his successful acting career.

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1970: Role in 'Le Cercle Rouge'

In 1970, Alain Delon played a role in 'Le Cercle Rouge', adding another film to his acclaimed career.

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1972: Role in 'Un flic'

In 1972, Alain Delon starred in the movie 'Un flic'.

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1976: Role in 'Monsieur Klein'

In 1976, Alain Delon starred in 'Monsieur Klein', adding to his list of critically acclaimed film roles.

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1985: César Award for Best Actor

In 1985, Alain Delon won the César Award for Best Actor for his performance in 'Notre histoire' (1984).

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1991: Membership in France's Legion of Honour

In 1991, Alain Delon became a member of France's Legion of Honour, recognizing his contributions and achievements.

2001: World Actor 2001 Trophy

In 2001, Alain Delon was honored with the World Actor 2001 trophy at the "Men of the Year 2001" ceremony in Vienna, Austria.

2019: Honorary Palme d'Or at Cannes Film Festival

At the 2019 Cannes Film Festival, Alain Delon received the Honorary Palme d'Or, celebrating his significant impact on cinema.

October 2024: Proposal to Honor Delon in Paris

In October 2024, the Paris Council voted on a proposal to honor Alain Delon with a street or facility named after him, including a plaque on the Normandie building on the Champs-Élysées.

2024: Tribute at Venice Film Festival

During the opening ceremony of the 2024 Venice Film Festival, images of Alain Delon, along with Gena Rowlands and Roberto Herlitzka, were projected in tribute.

2025: Delon Featured in 'In Memoriam' Segments

In 2025, Alain Delon was featured in the In Memoriam segments of the BAFTA and SAG Awards ceremonies. However, his absence from the Oscars tribute caused incomprehension in France and internationally. A tribute was paid to him at the opening of the 50th César Awards.