Remembering Brigitte Bardot: A Cinema Icon and Animal Rights Advocate

Sun Dec 28 2025 19:23:36 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Brigitte Bardot, the revolutionary French actress who became a symbol of sexual liberation and later dedicated her life to animal welfare, has passed away at the age of 91. This article reflects on her extraordinary legacy, marked by both cinematic achievements and controversial stances later in life.

Brigitte Bardot, the iconic French actress known for her role in 'And God Created Woman', has died at the age of 91. Celebrated for revolutionizing French cinema in the 1950s and championing animal rights in her later years, Bardot's life was a tapestry of film success and societal controversy. French President Macron and others have paid tribute, acknowledging her complex legacy.

French actress Brigitte Bardot, who revolutionized 1950s French cinema and became a symbol of sexual liberation, has passed away at the age of 91.

Known affectionately as 'BB' in France, Bardot starred in almost 50 films, including the iconic 'And God Created Woman', before retiring in 1973 to focus on animal rights activism.

Following her death, tributes poured in, with President Emmanuel Macron stating, France is mourning a legend of the century, and the Brigitte Bardot Foundation heralding her as a world-renowned actress.

Throughout her later years, Bardot's reputation was marred by her controversial comments, which included homophobic slurs and fines for inciting racial hatred.

The animal welfare foundation she founded responded with immense sadness to her passing, recalling her choice to dedicate her life and energy after her film career to the cause.

In a heartfelt tribute on social media, President Macron highlighted Bardot's embodiment of freedom and her influence on French culture.

Born in 1934, Bardot became a sensation after appearing on the cover of Elle, quickly transitioning to cinema fame. Her performances, particularly in 'And God Created Woman', broke societal norms and garnered her international acclaim.

Despite her cinematic successes, Bardot was also known for her commitment to animal welfare, founding the Brigitte Bardot Foundation in 1986. Her advocacy work often intertwined with public controversy towards the end of her life.

Bardot leaves behind a complex legacy, having impacted both the film world and the realm of social activism, alongside the controversies that marred her status as an icon.