French film icon Brigitte Bardot dies at 91, remembered for art and advocacy

Brigitte Bardot — a renowned French actress and singer — has died at the age of 91, her foundation announced Sunday with “immense sadness.” Bardot, who first gained international attention with her breakout performance in the 1956 romantic drama And God Created Woman, became one of the most recognizable figures in post‑war European cinema.

Born in Paris in 1934, Bardot began her artistic journey as a ballet student at the Conservatoire de Paris and soon transitioned into modelling in her teens. Her early experience in front of the camera paved the way for a prolific film career in which she appeared in around 50 films over two decades, including La Parisienne, Love on a Pillow and The Truth.

Despite her fame and widespread recognition, Bardot chose to retire from acting in 1973 at the height of her career to focus on issues she felt passionately about, most notably animal rights.

She founded the Brigitte Bardot Foundation in 1986, dedicating much of her later life to fighting against animal cruelty and campaigning for improved welfare protections around the world.

Her advocacy earned her respect among supporters and allies in the animal‑welfare community, though Bardot’s legacy is complex.

In her later years, she courted controversy for expressing outspoken political views that drew significant criticism. Bardot faced legal penalties for remarks deemed to incite racial hatred, and her positions on immigration and cultural issues were divisive.

French President Emmanuel Macron and others honored Bardot’s contributions to film and cultural life in France, describing her as a “legend” whose films and voice had a lasting impact on generations of audiences.

Brigitte Bardot is survived by her husband, Bernard d’Ormale, and her son, Nicolas‑Jacques Charrier.

Her passing marks the end of a remarkable life that traversed art, advocacy and controversy, reflecting both the heights of cinematic achievement and the challenges of public engagement beyond the screen.