George Clooney gets Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at Venice Film Festival

Hollywood actor George Clooney took centre stage at the opening ceremony of the Venice Film Festival yesterday, receiving the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement.

The tribute proved emotional, with Clooney visibly moved to tears at several points during the ceremony.

His wife, Amal Clooney, was also overcome with emotion, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Clooney received the honour from longtime friend and occasional co-star Laura Dern. Clooney poses with his Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement.

After receiving a lengthy standing ovation, Clooney delivered an emotional speech reflecting on his 45-year career, the people who shaped it and the role cinema has played in his life.