He loved the Virgin Mary. French cinema legend Alain Delon died on Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, at age 88 — and wanted a Catholic funeral.
The actor, known for his roles in classics such as The Samurai and The Leopard, died peacefully at his home in Douchy, France, surrounded by his three children, Paris Match reports.
Delon, who once described himself as "less religious than when he was younger," had a complex relationship with faith throughout his life.
In a 2018 interview with Paris Match, he said, "I don't really believe in God, but my passion is Mary."
The actor spoke of a deep devotion to the Virgin Mary and said, "I love this woman, I love everything she has done."
Despite his stated skepticism, Delon expressed a desire for a Catholic funeral, albeit a private one.
"I want a Catholic funeral ceremony. But discreet," he told Paris Match in 2021. "I don't want a public funeral. I'm not interested in that at all."
The actor's unique spirituality was also reflected in his funeral plans. Delon had a chapel built on his estate in Douchy next to the graves of his 35 beloved dogs.
"I want to be buried surrounded by my animals," he once said, describing his pets as "half of his life."
When asked about his final fate, Delon replied with characteristic wit: "I think I'll end up somewhere between [Heaven and Hell]. Certainly!"
La Croix reported that Delon's Catholic education in schools run by the Brothers of the Christian Schools left a lasting, if complicated, impression. The actor described the education as "very strict, hard," noting that he was sent there "for disciplinary reasons," not for a religious education.
In his later years, Delon spoke openly about mortality. He was ready, he told Paris Match, adding: "I have my grave in my chapel, there are six places."