French film legend Alain Delon has died at the age of 88.

The actor was a star of the golden era of French cinema, known for his tough-guy persona on screen in hits including The Samurai and Borsalino.

"He passed away peacefully in his home in Douchy, surrounded by his three children and his family," a statement released to AFP news agency said, adding that the family had asked for privacy.

Delon has been in poor health in recent years and become a virtual recluse.