Brigitte Bardot, the iconic French actress and animal rights advocate, has passed away at the age of 91, according to reports from French media and the Associated Press. Known for her captivating performances that defined the “free-spirited ingenue,” Bardot became an international sex symbol and a beloved figure in France. Her death, reported to have occurred at her home in southern France, was confirmed by Bruno Jacquelin from the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, which she founded to champion animal welfare.
The cause of her death has not been disclosed, and there are currently no arrangements for memorial services. Bardot had recently faced health issues, including a hospitalization last month, followed by surgery for an unspecified condition in October. In an ironic twist of fate, just weeks before her passing, she had publicly denied rumors of her death circulating on social media, asserting that she was in good health.
Born on September 28, 1934, in Paris, Bardot initially aspired to be a ballerina. Her career took a decisive turn when she dyed her hair blonde and starred in “And God Created Woman” (1956), directed by her then-husband Roger Vadim. The film, which revolved around a provocative young woman in Saint-Tropez, garnered significant attention and helped launch the sexual revolution of the 1960s, making Bardot a cultural phenomenon.
Over her career, Bardot appeared in over 40 films, including notable titles such as “The Truth” (1960) and “Viva Maria!” (1965). However, she chose to retire from acting at the age of 39 to focus on animal activism. Bardot often remarked on her shift in priorities, stating, “I gave my youth and my beauty to men, but I give my wisdom and experience to animals.”
Founded in 1986, the Brigitte Bardot Foundation became a vital platform for her advocacy. She campaigned against various issues, such as the consumption of horse meat and the hunting of doves, and international efforts to protect dolphins. Her passionate dedication to animal rights earned her the Legion of Honor medal, which she emphasized was in recognition of her advocacy, not her cinematic achievements.
In her later years, Bardot’s political views drew controversy, particularly her support for far-right ideologies, leading to several fines for hate speech. Despite these controversies, her impact on both film and animal rights is undeniable. Through her immense talent and subsequent activism, Bardot became not just a symbol of beauty but a voice for the voiceless.
Bardot’s tumultuous personal life included multiple high-profile marriages, with her second husband Jacques Charrier and an affair with actor Jean-Louis Trintignant significantly affecting her personal narrative. While her relationships were often marked by infidelity and heartbreak, she ultimately reconciled with her son Nicolas, and enjoyed the joy of becoming a grandmother.
Brigitte Bardot’s legacy as both a renowned actress and a committed activist remains unforgettable. Her journey from the silver screen to the fight for animal rights is a transformative story that highlights her complexities and her influence across generations, emphasizing the power of personal reinvention.