Brigitte Bardot Dead at 91, Farewell to a Free Icon

Brigitte Bardot dies at 91: farewell to a rebellious cinema icon and tireless defender of animal rights

Brigitte Bardot, one of the most iconic figures of French cinema and a lifelong advocate for animal rights, has died at the age of 91, her foundation announced on Sunday, December 28, 2025. A global symbol of the 1950s and 1960s, Bardot leaves behind a singular legacy shaped by fame, defiance of convention and decades of activism.

Born on September 28, 1934, in Paris, Brigitte Anne-Marie Bardot was initially trained in classical dance before being discovered by the film industry. Her international breakthrough came in 1956 with And God Created Woman, directed by Roger Vadim, whom she later married. The film transformed her into a worldwide phenomenon. With her unrestrained style, natural sensuality and refusal to conform to traditional norms, Bardot embodied a new image of femininity that resonated far beyond France.

A lasting cinematic legacy

Over a career spanning roughly two decades, Bardot appeared in nearly 50 films, working with some of the most prominent directors of her time. Among her most notable performances:

The Truth (La Vérité, 1960), directed by Henri-Georges Clouzot
Contempt (Le Mépris, 1963), directed by Jean-Luc Godard, alongside Michel Piccoli and Jack Palance
Viva Maria! (1965), directed by Louis Malle, with Jeanne Moreau
Boulevard du Rhum (1971), opposite Lino Ventura

In parallel with her film career, Bardot also achieved success as a singer, collaborating notably with Serge Gainsbourg on songs that became cultural landmarks. According to many film historians and biographers, her image and persona had a lasting influence on popular culture and the international perception of French cinema.

A decisive break and a new cause

In 1973, at the age of 39, Bardot abruptly retired from acting, citing exhaustion with celebrity culture, constant media intrusion and what she described as the artificial nature of the film industry. She withdrew to La Madrague, her property in Saint-Tropez, purchased in 1958, and redirected her life toward the protection of animals.

In 1986, she founded the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, later recognized as a public-interest organization in France. Financing its early work in part through the auction of her personal belongings, Bardot became fully dedicated to animal welfare, campaigning against seal hunting, animal experimentation, ritual slaughter and bullfighting. Advocacy replaced cinema as the central focus of her public life.

Tributes from PETA

Ingrid Newkirk, founder of PETA, paid tribute to Brigitte Bardot:

“Whether saving pigeons in Saint-Tropez or caring for her beloved dogs, Brigitte was a true angel for animals and will be deeply missed. For years she fought for animals and even appeared in court on their behalf. A lifelong vegetarian and dedicated advocate for all species, she sold her jewelry and other belongings to create a sanctuary and defend animals. She once said she only thrived when protecting these sensitive beings, and we urge the public to honor her memory today by acting for animals so that the seeds she planted continue to grow.”

This homage underscores Bardot’s enduring impact in animal protection and encourages others to continue her work.

Controversies and public debate

Bardot’s outspoken positions, particularly on issues related to immigration and Islam, sparked repeated controversy in France. These statements led to several judicial convictions for remarks ruled to constitute incitement to racial hatred, while also ensuring her continued support among a segment of the public.

An enduring and complex legacy

Despite controversies, Brigitte Bardot remains, for many, a symbol of uncompromising independence. In her final book, Mon BBcédaire, published in October 2025, she wrote:

“Freedom is being oneself, even when it disturbs.”

Tributes have poured in from France and abroad, acknowledging a figure who inspired admiration, provoked debate and consistently refused to conform.

Brigitte Bardot
September 28, 1934 – December 28, 2025

With her passing, cinema loses a legend, animal-rights activism one of its most determined voices, and the 20th century one of its most influential cultural figures.