Brigitte Bardot, one of the most iconic figures in French film and a lasting symbol of feminine independence, has died at age 91. The beloved screen star passed away on December 28, 2025, at her home in Saint‑Tropez after a battle with cancer. Her husband, Bernard d’Ormale, shared that she had undergone two surgical procedures in an effort to treat the disease and was surrounded by loved ones as she died peacefully.
Bardot’s rise to international fame began in the mid‑1950s with her breakthrough performance in And God Created Woman, which helped redefine cinematic portrayals of female sexuality and empowered a new generation of women. Over the next two decades, she became one of France’s most recognizable actresses, known for her beauty, fierce on‑screen presence, and trailblazing spirit.
In 1973, at the height of her fame, Bardot chose to leave acting behind. She dedicated her life to animal welfare, founding the Brigitte Bardot Foundation in 1986. Through her activism, she championed the rights of animals across France and around the world, lending her celebrity to efforts that saved countless lives and brought widespread attention to animal protection issues.
Yet Bardot’s legacy is not without controversy. In her later years, her outspoken political views led to legal troubles and public debate, complicating her once‑universally admired persona. Still, many remember her as a transformative figure in cinema and a passionate advocate for those without a voice.
Her funeral in Saint‑Tropez reflected her multifaceted life: intimate moments of mourning with family and quiet public tributes from admirers. Bardot’s influence on film, culture, and activism will endure long after her passing.