Tribute Debate Erupts Over Brigitte Bardot's Legacy in France

Tue Dec 30 2025 17:03:36 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As France mourns the death of iconic actress Brigitte Bardot, political tensions rise over proposals for a national tribute to her conflicting legacy.

The passing of Brigitte Bardot at age 91 has sparked calls from the French right for a national tribute, igniting fierce debate among politicians. Right-wing leader Éric Ciotti advocates for a recognition ceremony, citing Bardot's pivotal role in French culture. However, opposition from the left highlights Bardot's controversial legacy, including her far-right sympathies. Reactions from President Macron and local authorities further complicate the discourse, emphasizing the divide in honoring a figure revered for her contributions yet criticized for her views.

French right-wing figure Éric Ciotti has called for a national tribute to honour film legend Brigitte Bardot, prompting objections from political opponents on the left.

France has a duty to honour its Marianne, said Ciotti, referring to the emblem of French liberty whose face Bardot was chosen to represent in the 1960s.

Bardot died on Sunday aged 91. A petition launched by Ciotti since has attracted more than 23,000 signatures, and has the backing of some allies on the far right.

But Socialist leader Olivier Faure has pointed out that national homages are for exceptional services to the nation. Bardot was an iconic actress but she also turned her back on republican values, Faure argued.

Bardot has been hailed by President Emmanuel Macron as a legend of the century who embodied a life of freedom. Ciotti has appealed to him to organise a national send-off.

Ciotti said France should recognise a woman who brought her country an extraordinary level of international recognition and actively helped in the fight for women's liberty and abortion rights.

Meanwhile, the mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, announced that his city will name an iconic site in Bardot's honour.

However, Bardot is destined to remain controversial in death as she was during her life. Faure pointed out that she had been convicted five times for inciting racial hatred.

Bardot starred in some 50 films, after bursting onto the scene in And God Created Woman in 1956. She left the world of cinema in 1973 for a life devoted to animal welfare, living for decades in Saint-Tropez.

Her far-right sympathies have drawn sharp criticism. Green MP Sandrine Rousseau questioned the seeming hypocrisy of caring for animals while ignoring the plight of migrants.

Yet, not all left-leaning politicians oppose the homage. Some have commented on the precedent of honoring beloved public figures like singer Johnny Hallyday.

Bardot herself had expressed disinterest in grand tributes, preferring a simple life. Her funeral, set for January 7, will be held at the Notre-Dame de l'Assomption church, reflecting her wishes for a modest send-off.