The world of cinema and animal advocacy is in mourning following the death of French icon Brigitte Bardot at the age of 91. The actress and activist passed away after a sudden illness, just days after being admitted to Saint-Jean Hospital.
A Sudden End for a Screen Legend
Brigitte Bardot's death was confirmed by the foundation she established. Reports indicate she had been receiving care at the medical facility for around 10 days before her passing. Her final hospitalisation followed complications from a recent surgery, which she had undergone as part of treatment for a serious illness just last month.
The star, who had been living at her Saint-Tropez estate, was rushed to hospital after her condition deteriorated. This news follows a period where Bardot had forcefully denied false online rumours about her health and even her death, posting on social media platform X to assure fans she was "fine."
From Sex Symbol to Savious Saint
Bardot's journey to global fame began early. She first graced the cover of Elle magazine at just 15, which led to film auditions. By 17, she was appearing in movies like Crazy for Love and Manina, the Girl in the Bikini.
Her life changed irrevocably in 1956 with the film And God Created Woman, directed by her then-husband Roger Vadim. The role catapulted her to international stardom, cementing her status as the "original sex kitten" and a defining figure of the post-war Sexual Revolution.
Beyond film, Bardot became a timeless style icon. Her signature blonde bouffant hair and winged eyeliner are still emulated today. She also played a pivotal role in popularising the bikini, encouraging a generation to embrace sartorial freedom.
A Life of Passion and Advocacy
In a surprising move, Bardot retired from acting in 1973 at the height of her fame. She redirected her formidable energy and public profile towards animal welfare, founding the Brigitte Bardot Foundation. The organisation released the official statement announcing her death, praising her decision to "abandon her prestigious career to dedicate her life and energy to animal welfare."
French President Emmanuel Macron led tributes, describing Bardot on X as "a legend of the century." He wrote that she "embodied a life of freedom" and that France mourned a figure of "universal brilliance."
Bardot's personal life was as storied as her career. She was married four times, to Roger Vadim, Jacques Charrier, Gunter Sachs, and finally Bernard d’Ormale. She also battled health issues, including a breast cancer diagnosis in 1984 from which she recovered, and more recent mobility problems and a hospitalisation for respiratory failure in 2023.
The legacy of Brigitte Bardot is a dual one: an unforgettable film star who shaped modern femininity and a relentless campaigner whose foundation continues her passionate fight for animal rights.
