French actress Brigitte Bardot, known for her iconic roles in the 1960s and later as an animal rights advocate and far-right supporter, passed away at the age of 91 in her home in southern France. The news was confirmed by Bruno Jacquelin from the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the protection of animals.
Bardot, who rose to fame with her role in the controversial 1956 film “And God Created Woman,” was a symbol of liberation in France with her distinctive blonde hair and bold demeanor. She later became the face of Marianne, a national emblem of France.
Apart from her successful acting career with over 28 films, Bardot dedicated herself to animal rights activism. She protested against various forms of animal cruelty and received the Legion of Honour in 1985 for her contributions.
However, in later years, Bardot’s public image suffered due to her extreme views on immigration and her association with far-right figures like Jean-Marie Le Pen. Despite the controversies, she remained unapologetic about her beliefs.
In her later years, Bardot reinvented herself as a prominent animal rights activist, selling off her belongings to fund her foundation. She campaigned globally against animal cruelty and challenged longstanding traditions involving animals.
Although she faced criticism for her controversial statements and actions, Bardot remained steadfast in her advocacy for animal rights until her passing, leaving behind a legacy as a complex and influential figure.
French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Bardot, recognizing her as a legendary figure who made a lasting impact on French cinema and animal welfare.
