PARIS / NZ INDIAN INSIGHTS — Brigitte Bardot, the French actress whose name became synonymous with mid‑20th century cinema and later a passionate campaigner for animal rights, has died at age 91, her foundation confirmed.
Bardot’s death was reported by the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the Welfare and Protection of Animals, which shared that she passed away peacefully at her home in southern France on December 28, 2025. No official cause of death has been released.
From Silver Screen to Global Stardom
Born in 1934 in Paris, Bardot first captured public attention as a model before transitioning into acting. Her breakthrough came with the 1956 film And God Created Woman, which propelled her to international prominence and established her as one of the 20th century’s most recognizable screen icons.
Over her career, she appeared in dozens of films that helped define the cultural spirit of the 1950s and 1960s, embracing roles that challenged conventions and often stirred public debate.
A Fierce Advocate for Animals
After retiring from acting in the early 1970s, Bardot turned her focus to animal welfare. In 1986, she founded the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, using her fame and personal resources to campaign against cruelty toward animals around the world. The foundation supported causes such as banning certain hunting practices, opposing inhumane slaughter methods, and protecting endangered species.
Her activism was credited with bringing animal rights into broader public conversation in France and beyond, even as it sometimes attracted controversy.
Complex Legacy and Public Reaction
Bardot’s outspoken nature continued throughout her life. While many lauded her dedication to animals, others critiqued her political and social views in later years, which occasionally resulted in legal disputes.
In response to her passing, French President Emmanuel Macron honored Bardot as a “legend of cinema and a force for passion and freedom,” noting her impact on French culture and public life.
Across France and internationally, tributes poured in from fans, animal welfare organisations, and public figures who remembered Bardot as both a pioneering performer and an ardent voice for the voiceless.
FAQs:
Who was Brigitte Bardot?
Brigitte Bardot was a French actress, singer, and model who became a global film icon in the 1950s and 1960s. She starred in films like And God Created Woman and became a symbol of French cinema and glamour.
When did Brigitte Bardot pass away?
Brigitte Bardot passed away peacefully at her home in southern France on December 28, 2025, at the age of 91.
What was Brigitte Bardot known for besides acting?
After retiring from films in the early 1970s, Bardot became a dedicated animal rights activist. She founded the Brigitte Bardot Foundation in 1986 to campaign against animal cruelty and support wildlife protection.
What is Brigitte Bardot’s legacy?
Bardot left a dual legacy: as a cinematic icon who influenced film and fashion worldwide, and as a passionate advocate for animal welfare whose foundation continues to fight for the protection of animals.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. NZ Indian Insights is not affiliated with Brigitte Bardot or her foundation.
