Brigitte Bardot, French Film Icon and Fierce Animal Rights Advocate, Dies at 91

PARIS, France — Brigitte Bardot, the legendary French actress whose beauty and talent made her one of the most recognisable film stars of the 20th century, has died at the age of 91, her foundation announced Sunday. Bardot’s passing marks the end of an era in global cinema and animal rights activism.

Bardot rose to international fame in the 1950s and 1960s, captivating audiences as a bold and sensual leading lady in films such as And God Created Woman, the 1956 breakout role that turned her into a global sex symbol. Her performances helped redefine female stardom in postwar cinema and made her a cultural icon of the era.

Born Brigitte Anne-Marie Bardot in Paris in 1934, she trained in ballet and began her career as a model before transitioning to acting, where her screen presence and uninhibited spirit quickly earned her widespread acclaim. Over her film career, she appeared in nearly 50 films and recorded music as a singer, earning admiration from fans and critics alike.

In 1973, Bardot stunned the entertainment world when she retired from acting at age 39, saying she wished to leave the spotlight on her own terms. From that point on, she focused her energy on animal rights advocacy, founding the Brigitte Bardot Foundation in 1986 to protect animals from cruelty, including seal hunting, animal testing, and inhumane slaughter practices. Her foundation became one of Europe’s most recognised voices for animal welfare.

However, Bardot’s legacy was complex. Later in life she became a controversial figure due to outspoken political comments and support for far-right causes, which led to multiple convictions in French courts for inciting racial hatred. While her animal rights work inspired many, critics argued her political remarks overshadowed parts of her humanitarian efforts.

Friends, colleagues and animal welfare organisations paid tribute to Bardot’s impact on cinema and activism. “She was a force of nature — fearless on screen and tireless in her dedication to those who cannot speak for themselves,” said a spokesperson for the Brigitte Bardot Foundation.

Bardot’s legacy lives on in both film history and global animal protection movements. Her work transformed the way people see celebrity activism and left an indelible mark on cultural and humanitarian landscapes around the world.