May 02, 2025: Acclaimed actor Timothée Chalamet will be honored with the David for Cinematic Excellence at this year’s David di Donatello Awards in Rome, the Italian cinema academy announced on Friday.
Chalamet, known for his roles in Dune and A Complete Unknown, is being recognized for his dynamic impact on global cinema. Italian cinema academy president Piera Detassis praised him as “one of the most unpredictable and talented protagonists of international cinema,” highlighting his unique blend of European roots and American background.
“Chalamet is both an auteur performer and a trendsetting star,” Detassis stated. “This award acknowledges his consistent work in quality, innovative films, as well as his status as a global cultural icon.”
Chalamet’s breakthrough came with the Oscar-nominated Italian film Call Me by Your Name, directed by Luca Guadagnino—a director with whom the actor has maintained a strong creative bond. He returned to Italy for the Venice Film Festival premieres of Dune: Part 1 (2021) and Guadagnino’s Bones and All (2022), drawing massive fan reactions on the red carpet both years.
The honorary David underscores Chalamet’s strong connection to Italian cinema and celebrates his rising legacy in the global film industry.