Farewell to a French Icon: Brigitte Bardot Dies at 91
Known universally by her initials "B.B.", Bardot rose to global fame with her iconic, free-spirited performance in the 1956 film
. She quickly became the epitome of mid-20th-century sensuality, challenging social norms and making foreign films popular with American audiences during an era of strict Hollywood censorship.
After starring in 56 films and a successful music career, she abruptly retired from the entertainment industry at the peak of her fame in 1973, just before her 40th birthday. She famously declared, "I gave my beauty and my youth to men, and now I am giving my wisdom and experience, the best of me, to animals".
Legacy of Activism and Controversy
In retirement, Bardot dedicated her life to animal welfare, founding the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the Welfare and Protection of Animals in 1986. Her foundation announced her death in a statement that praised her unwavering commitment to the cause.
In her later years, Bardot remained a provocative figure, known for her far-right political views and controversial comments on immigration and other social issues, which often overshadowed her earlier career.
French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to the icon, writing on social media that France mourns "a legend of the century" who "embodied a life of freedom".
Brigitte Bardot is survived by her husband, Bernard d'Ormale, and her son, Nicolas-Jacques Charrier.