Brigitte Bardot Dies at 91: From Screen Siren to Animal Rights Legend

French icon Brigitte Bardot has died at 91. From her rise as a global film star to her lifelong fight for animal welfare, explore the extraordinary life and legacy of one of France’s most influential women.

Brigitte Bardot Dies at 91: Remembering a French Icon

French actress, singer, and legendary animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot has died at the age of 91 at her home in southern France. Her foundation announced the news on Sunday, marking the end of a life that bridged film, fashion, and fierce advocacy.

Bruno Jacquelin, spokesperson for the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, confirmed her passing and hailed her as “a world-renowned actress and singer who dedicated her life and energy to animal welfare.”

Although Bardot had faced health challenges in recent years — including multiple hospitalizations in 2025 — she remained a vibrant cultural figure, celebrated for both her cinematic legacy and her fearless activism.

From Screen Siren to Cultural Phenomenon

Brigitte Bardot captured the world’s imagination with her breakthrough role in “And God Created Woman” (1956), directed by her then-husband, Roger Vadim. The film’s bold sensuality shocked audiences and helped propel the French New Wave cinema movement.

Her signature style — tousled blonde hair, natural makeup, and effortless glamour — made her a fashion icon. Designers and photographers vied to capture her unique blend of innocence and seduction.

A symbol of French femininity, Bardot’s image was chosen in 1969 to represent Marianne, the national emblem of France. Her likeness adorned civic buildings, postage stamps, and coins — immortalizing her as a face of French identity.

Throughout her career, she appeared in nearly fifty films, including Jean-Luc Godard’s “Contempt” (1963) and “Viva Maria!” (1965) alongside Jeanne Moreau. Despite her international stardom, Bardot remained loyal to European cinema, famously declining major Hollywood offers.

Turning Away from Stardom

In 1973, at just 39, Bardot shocked the world by retiring from acting altogether. Disillusioned by fame and deeply moved by a documentary on seal hunting, she decided to devote her life to protecting animals.

This decision marked the beginning of her second act — one that would define her final decades even more profoundly than her film career.

A Second Act in Animal Advocacy

In 1986, Bardot sold her personal jewelry and belongings to raise funds for what would become the Brigitte Bardot Foundation — one of France’s most prominent animal welfare organizations.

The foundation fights for causes such as:

Ending animal testing and fur trading.
Opposing bullfighting and cruel hunting practices.
Improving the treatment of farm animals and pets.
Rescuing and sheltering abused animals across France.

Now operating four sanctuaries housing more than 7,000 rescued animals, the foundation also conducts over 2,000 investigations annually to protect animal welfare.

Bardot’s activism earned her widespread respect but also sparked controversy. Between 1997 and 2008, she faced legal challenges for comments condemned as discriminatory, yet she never wavered in voicing her beliefs — fiercely independent to the end.

Legacy of a Cultural and Moral Force

Brigitte Bardot’s legacy stretches far beyond her filmography. She redefined the modern image of femininity, inspired fashion icons from Jane Birkin to Kate Moss, and later paved the way for celebrity activism long before it became common.

Her life traced an extraordinary arc — from rebellious movie goddess to moral crusader for animals.

She is survived by her husband, Bernard d’Ormale, and her son, Nicolas-Jacques Charrier.
Her foundation continues to operate as one of France’s most active voices for animal rights.

Quick Facts About Brigitte Bardot

Born: September 28, 1934, in Paris, France
Died: December 2025, in Saint-Tropez, France
Age: 91
Notable films: And God Created Woman (1956), Contempt (1963), Viva Maria! (1965)
Honors: Legion of Honor (1985), Symbol of Marianne (1969)
Foundation: Brigitte Bardot Foundation (1986)

A Timeless Symbol of France

Whether remembered for her sultry roles or her uncompromising compassion, Brigitte Bardot leaves behind a complex, enduring legacy. She was a woman who lived fully in the public eye — yet chose, courageously, to turn away from it in pursuit of something greater.

Her passing marks not only the end of a golden era of French cinema but also the farewell to one of Europe’s most passionate champions for animals.