Brigitte Bardot: A Farewell to an Icon of Cinema and Controversy

Brigitte Bardot, the legendary film star turned animal rights activist, will be laid to rest in her hometown of Saint-Tropez on Wednesday. The funeral, taking place at the Notre-Dame de l'Assomption church, is set to be attended by her favorite politician, far-right leader Marine Le Pen. The beloved star passed away at her La Madrague villa on December 28, aged 91, succumbing to complications from cancer. Her husband, Bernard d'Ormale, revealed that Bardot had bravely undergone two operations prior to her death. Though he did not specify the type of cancer, he noted that she faced her health challenges with remarkable strength. Bardot shot to international fame in the 1950s, heralded as a revolutionary force in French cinema through her roles in iconic films such as "And God Created Woman." She defined an era, becoming a symbol of sexual liberation and defiance against traditional norms. However, after retiring from acting in the 1970s, Bardot became a polarizing figure as an outspoken campaigner for animal rights and a controversial advocate for far-right political views. Her later years were marked by her hardline stances on immigration, which alienated some of her fans. Bardot faced convictions for hate speech on multiple occasions, often targeting Muslim communities. Up until her passing, she expressed support for Le Pen’s National Rally party, which is positioned against immigration and has gained traction ahead of the upcoming 2027 presidential race in France. On Wednesday, the streets of Saint-Tropez filled with cheers as Bardot's funeral procession made its way through the bustling Place des Lices and past the picturesque port. Attendees included family, esteemed French singers like Jean-Roch and Mireille Mathieu, TV personality Caroline Margeridon, and renowned marine conservation activist Paul Watson, all gathering to remember a complex legacy. Le Pen's presence underscored the ideological bond between her and Bardot, who had once likened the politician to a modern-day Joan of Arc, viewing her as an emblem of French nationalism. While the funeral is expected to reflect Bardot’s devotion to animal rights, it is also anticipated to celebrate her multifaceted life, complete with surprises in line with her wishes. As spokesperson Bruno Jacquelin remarked, the ceremony will honor her essence and the love shared with those who knew her. Bardot’s death evoked mixed reactions within the public sphere, notably from Sandrine Rousseau, a politician from the Greens, who condemned Bardot's perceived hypocrisy in fighting for dolphins while disregarding the plight of migrants in the Mediterranean. This statement encapsulates the duality of Bardot's legacy—a celebrated icon in cinema and an equally divisive figure in social and political discourse. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2