Salma Hayek Knighted In France

Actress Salma Hayek is about to become a Knight. The actress of movies, TV and CGI based animated blockbusters was named by President Nicolas Sarkozy to receive the Légion d’Honneur Sunday.

Hayek, 45, will enter the five-tier honor academy with the grade of Chevalier also known as “Knight.”

The honor was announced during the annual New Year’s list and Hayek along with her other nominees will receive a formal induction in the next two months. According to officials her Presidential medal pinning will likely happen at the Élysées Palace

The award was first given out by Napoleon in 1802 and the Legion of Honor is meant to celebrate military personnel and civilians who have provided positive services to France.

Salma Hayek is not the first non-French person to win the award, it is often given to international figures who portray France in a positive light. Former recipients including actor/directors Clint Eastwood, Robert De Niro and Robert Redford.

For Hayek the award runs in the family and holds a special meaning as her father-in-law, business magnate Francois Pinault, was promoted to the same list and rose to the rank of Grand Officer.

While she may be married to the heir of a business fortune Salma Hayek recently told Redbook:

“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.”

Do you think it’s silly for country leaders to give actors, actresses and other entertainment types a Knighthood for their work?

[Image via cinemafestival / Shutterstock.com]