Sir Michael Caine has been presented with France’s highest cultural honour by being named a Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters.
The Daily Telegraph reports that the actor received the award last week in Paris during an official state ceremony, which was hosted by French Minister of Culture and Communication Frédéric Mitterrand.
Mitterrand praised Caine in his remarks for exemplifying “the humour, magic and the warmth of the cinema”.
During his acceptance speech, Caine joked that he was convinced that he only received the prize because he speaks the French language.
“I’ve always loved this country, the food, the people. I didn’t know whether the French loved me and thought maybe it was a one-way affair. But now I have this award, I know [they do],” he added.
Previous recipients of the prize have included mime Marcel Marceau, Oscar-winning director Clint Eastwood, folk singer Bob Dylan and James Bond actor Roger Moore.
The Order of Arts and Letters was established in 1957 in order to recognise the accomplishments of artists that have provided significant contributions to French life.