Paris, France – The artistic and cultural communities around the world mourned on Sunday following the announcement of the death of the legendary French actress Brigitte Bardot. She passed away at the age of 91, leaving behind a rich cinematic legacy and a long history of animal rights advocacy.
Foundation statement and farewell to the “animal advocate”
The Brigitte Bardot Foundation announced the death in an official statement sent to Agence France-Presse. The statement expressed the foundation’s deepest sorrow at the passing of its president and founder. It read: “The foundation announces with profound sadness the death of the world-renowned actress and singer Brigitte Bardot. At the height of her fame, she chose to give up a prestigious career to dedicate her life and efforts to animal rights.”
The statement did not specify a precise date or location of her death. However, it affirmed that her passing marked the end of an era for one of the most prominent advocates for the lives of vulnerable creatures in modern times.
Her last wish
In her final public appearance, Bardot spoke candidly about her personal battles with depression. She emphasized that her last wish was not to be remembered as “the most beautiful of women,” but rather to be remembered through “the respect that must be shown to animals.” Bardot had been experiencing health problems last November and underwent surgery, but she reassured her fans shortly before her passing.
From Paris to the world stage: The journey of “God created woman”
Brigitte Anne-Marie Bardot was born on September 28, 1934, in Paris to a conservative family. She burst onto the international scene in the 1950s, becoming a symbol of femininity and freedom thanks to iconic films such as “And God Created Woman” (1956). The film made her an international star and a controversial figure.
Fashion inspiration: She was the first to make “ballet flats” and “bikinis” a global trend. She was famous for her blonde hair and black eyeliner, which became her trademark.
Overwhelming popularity: In 1958, 300 photographers drowned in their boat off Venice just to take her picture. Her initials were even spelled out in the sky by airplanes.
Retirement and dedication to the cause
In a surprising move that shocked the world in the 1970s, “Bebi”—as her fans affectionately called her—decided to retire from acting and step away from the fleeting limelight. She settled in Saint-Tropez on the French Riviera. There, she founded her renowned foundation and sold her jewelry and valuables to fund animal protection projects. She waged fierce battles against seal hunting and illegal slaughterhouses.
