In a career that spanned an impressive seven decades, Sir Michael Caine, the iconic British actor, has officially announced his retirement from acting. The 90-year-old, known for his distinguished performances in classics like Zulu, The Italian Job, and more recently, Interstellar and The Dark Knight franchise, confirmed the decision after the release of his latest film, “The Great Escaper.”

Caine, a recipient of Oscars, Golden Globes, and Bafta awards, shared with the BBC, “I keep saying I’m going to retire. Well, I am now. I’ve figured, I’ve had a picture where I’ve played the lead and had incredible reviews… What am I going to do that will beat this?”

His final film, released on October 6, features him as real-life World War Two veteran Bernie Jordan, who escapes from a care home to attend D-Day celebrations in France. Reflecting on his future roles, Caine remarked, “The only parts I’m liable to get now are 90-year-old men. Or maybe 85… They’re not going to be the lead. You don’t have leading men at 90, you’re going to have young handsome boys and girls. So I thought, I might as well leave with all this.”

Despite initially turning down the role in “The Great Escaper” three times, he accepted, stating he considered himself retired at the time. His co-star, Glenda Jackson, passed away in June after completing the film.

Sir Michael’s retirement coincides with the upcoming release of his novel, “Deadly Game,” scheduled for next month. The thriller follows the adventures of DCI Harry Taylor, a detective with a disdain for red tape and political reputations. Caine expressed his excitement about the project, saying, “It’s been my ambition for years to write a thriller… I hope readers enjoy getting to know Harry Taylor as much as I did.”

The news of Sir Michael Caine’s retirement marks the end of an era in the film industry, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable performances and a contribution to cinema that will be remembered for generations.