Forget an Oscar, Golden Globe, Emmy or Tony. Salma Hayek is getting a French Knighthood. C’est Magnifique! Ooh La La.
The star of Frida will receive the honor this weekend after being named by President Nicolas Sarkozy to be awarded the Légion d’Honneur. The 45 year old will take part in a medal pinning ceremony on Sunday. Her formal induction is expected to occur at the Élysées Palace in Paris within the next two months. It’s a nice start to 2012 for Salma.
The Legion of Honor was founded in 1802 by Napoleon. It’s awarded to military personnel and civilians for their service to France. But luckily you don’t have to be French to receive it. Recipients can wear a small rosette pin showing their rank. So the actress will have a new accessory to show off!
Salma joins a long list of Hollywood stars recognised by the French. They include Dirty Harry himself Clint Eastwood, Robert Redford and Robert De Niro. Nice company if you can get it.
So why does the Puss in Boots star get such a prestigious accolade? It seems to be tied up with her French husband. Her retired father-in-law Francois Pinault has also been singled out on the New Year’s honors list. But the mum of one doesn’t want to trade off her notable in-laws. She told Redbook last year ‘I work hard, I make my own living and I love it. I like having financial independence … I don’t ever want to have to depend on anyone completely.’
