Brigitte Bardot, the renowned French actress and animal rights activist, passed away on Sunday at the age of 91. The news was announced by the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of its founder and president. Bardot, a global icon known for her contributions to cinema, chose to step away from her illustrious acting career to dedicate her life to animal protection.
Brigitte Bardot: A Life in Cinema and Activism
Bardot died in her beloved residence, La Madrague, located in Saint-Tropez, France. President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to her on social media, calling her “a legend of the century.” Culture Minister Rachida Dati referred to her as “an icon among icons.” Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally party, also honored Bardot, describing her as “incredibly French: free, indomitable, whole.”
A Cultural Icon
Born in 1934 in a Parisian bourgeois family, Bardot rose to fame in the 1950s. Her performance in “Et Dieu… créa la femme” (1956) shocked conventions and established her as a sex symbol. Throughout her career, she starred in around fifty films, gaining notoriety for her beauty and turbulent personal life.
- Key Film Roles:
- “Et Dieu… créa la femme” – Her breakout role.
- “Le Mépris” – Notable for its iconic opening scene.
Bardot’s personal life was often scrutinized, especially as she navigated fame and motherhood. She gave birth to her only child, Nicolas, in 1960, maintaining a complicated relationship with motherhood.
Transition to Animal Rights Activism
After stepping back from the limelight at 39, Bardot channeled her energy into animal rights advocacy. The pivotal moment came during the filming of her last movie when she encountered a goat. She later purchased the animal and kept it with her, sparking her passion for animal welfare.
Bardot’s activism included actions against ritual slaughter, bullfighting, and the consumption of horse meat. In 1977, she garnered widespread attention for her campaign to protect seal pups in Canada, which became one of her notable missions.
Later Years and Legacy
In her later years, Bardot sought a peaceful life in the South of France. She managed her foundation, created in 1986, from her residences, where she also cared for abandoned animals. Desiring tranquility, she expressed a wish to live simply, without modern technology.
As her health declined, Bardot made headlines in November with news of hospitalizations. She held strong views regarding her funeral, preferring a private burial marked with a simple wooden cross in her garden.
Impact and Remembrance
Brigitte Bardot’s legacy extends beyond film. She stood as a symbol of freedom and rebellion, challenging societal norms throughout her life. As the world remembers her, Bardot remains an enduring icon whose impact on both cinema and animal rights is immeasurable.
