Armenian Ministry of Culture extends condolences on passing of Alain Delon

The Armenian Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport has extended condolences over the passing of French film legend Alain Delon.

“It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Alain Delon, a true icon of French cinema, who touched thousands of hearts around the world. His emotional attitude towards Armenia and the Armenian people will forever remain engraved in our hearts and memories,” the ministry said in a statement, posting a photo of Delon at the Armenian Genocide memorial in Yerevan during his visit to the country.

Delon visited Armenia in 2012 for the premiere of the Happy New Year, Moms! comedy where he portrayed himself.

In total, he made almost 90 films during his career.

A statement from his family said: "Alain Fabien, Anouchka, Anthony, as well as (his dog) Loubo, are deeply saddened to announce the passing of their father.

"He passed away peacefully in his home in Douchy, surrounded by his three children and his family." He was 88.

Le Parisian newspaper called Delon “a legend of the cinema”, while Liberation described him as “a leading figure of cinema, symbol of shadowy masculinity, the actor with crazy charisma," according to the BBC. 

In a statement to AFP news agency, Brigitte Bardot said Delon "represented the best of France's 'prestige cinema'".

French President Emmanuel Macron was among those paying tribute to Delon on Sunday, saying the actor “played legendary roles and made the world dream”.