The world of cinema and activism has lost an icon. Brigitte Bardot, the French actress who became a global sex symbol and later a militant animal rights activist, has passed away at the age of 91. Reports confirm she died at her home in Southern France. No official cause of death has been disclosed at this time.
From Shy Child to Global Phenomenon
Born Brigitte Anne-Marie Bardot on September 28, 1934, into a wealthy industrialist family, she was a shy and secretive child. Her path to stardom began when a family friend discovered her and placed her on the cover of Elle magazine at just 14. A trained classical ballet dancer, her destiny was forever changed when she married French film director Roger Vadim in 1952.
It was Vadim who directed her in the 1956 film 'And God Created Woman', a role that catapulted her to international fame. Portraying a sexualized teen bride, the film sparked controversy with its daring scenes, including one of Bardot dancing naked on a table. This role cemented her status as a symbol of a France breaking free from bourgeois constraints. Her tousled blonde hair, voluptuous figure, and signature pout made her one of the most recognizable faces of her generation.
Her fame was so immense that in 1969, her features were chosen as the model for "Marianne," the national emblem of France, appearing on statues, postal stamps, and coins. Over her career, she starred in around 28 films, including notable works like 'The Truth' (1960), 'Shalako' (1968), and 'Don Juan' (1973).
A Sharp Turn to Animal Activism
In a surprising shift, Bardot retired from acting at the age of 39 in 1973 and dedicated her life to animal rights. Her activism was fierce and far-reaching. She traveled to the Arctic to protest the slaughter of baby seals, campaigned against the use of animals in laboratory experiments, and even opposed sending monkeys into space.
This work earned her significant respect in France, culminating in her being awarded the Legion of Honor, the nation's highest award, in 1985. However, her later years were marked by controversy as her animal protection advocacy took on an extremist tone and she voiced far-right political views. She frequently made headlines for decrying immigration into France, particularly of Muslims, making statements widely condemned as racist.
Controversial Legacy and Final Days
Bardot remained a divisive figure until the end. In 2018, during the peak of the #MeToo movement, she called actors protesting sexual harassment "hypocritical" and "ridiculous," stating she had never been a victim and found it charming to be complimented on her appearance.
According to Bruno Jacquelin of her animal protection NGO, she was admitted to the hospital last month. As of now, no arrangements for her funeral or memorial services have been announced. The news of her death marks the end of an era for a woman who lived many lives: from a coveted screen siren to a passionate, if problematic, defender of animals, leaving behind a complex and indelible mark on French culture and beyond.
