French Screen Legend and Animal Rights Activist Brigitte Bardot Dies at 91

A Life of Stardom and Advocacy Concludes

Brigitte Bardot, the iconic French actress, singer, and fervent animal rights activist, has died at the age of 91. Her passing was announced on Sunday, December 28, 2025, by the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the Welfare and Protection of Animals. She died at her home, La Madrague, in Saint-Tropez, southern France. The cause of death was not publicly disclosed, though she had been briefly hospitalized in October for a 'minor' procedure.

French President Emmanuel Macron led tributes, describing Bardot as 'a legend of the century' and stating that 'France was mourning' her.

From 'Sex Kitten' to Global Icon

Born Brigitte Anne-Marie Bardot in Paris on September 28, 1934, she began her career as a model, appearing on the cover of Elle magazine at just 15 years old. Her acting career took off in 1952, but it was her starring role in the 1956 film 'And God Created Woman,' directed by her then-husband Roger Vadim, that catapulted her to international stardom. The film, which broke contemporary taboos with its portrayal of female sexuality, cemented her image as a global 'sex symbol' and 'sex kitten.'

Throughout the 1960s, Bardot starred in dozens of films, including critically acclaimed works like Jean-Luc Godard's 'Contempt' (1963) and Louis Malle's 'Viva Maria!' (1965). Her distinctive look, characterized by her tousled blonde hair and pouty irreverence, made her one of France's most recognizable stars. In 1969, her features were even chosen to model 'Marianne,' the national emblem of France.

A Dedicated Animal Rights Crusader

At the height of her cinematic fame, Bardot made the decision to retire from acting in 1973 at the age of 39, after making over 47 films. She then dedicated the remainder of her life to animal welfare.

In 1986, she established the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the Welfare and Protection of Animals, which was recognized as a public body in 1992. Through her foundation, Bardot became a vocal and militant activist, campaigning against:

• Seal hunts
• Animal testing
• The production and sale of foie gras
• The use of animal fur
• Mistreatment of animals in slaughterhouses

She famously stated, 'I don't care about my past glory. That means nothing in the face of an animal that suffers, since it has no power, no words to defend itself.' Her unwavering commitment to animals earned her the Legion of Honor in 1985, though she declined to accept it.

While her animal rights activism garnered widespread respect, Bardot also became known for her outspoken views on far-right politics, which led to several convictions for inciting racial hatred. Despite these controversies, her legacy as both a cultural icon and a passionate advocate for animals remains profound.