Brigitte Bardot: Hollywood's Sex Siren and Animal Rights Activist Dies at 91

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French cinema legend Brigitte Bardot, known for her provocative on-screen presence and tireless animal rights advocacy, has passed away at the age of 91. Born into a wealthy family, Bardot's early life was marked by a strict upbringing and a discovery by a family friend at just 14 years old, which led to her modeling career and later, the iconic film role in 'And God Created Woman' (1956). Bardot's international fame was cemented in the 1960s, with a string of films showcasing her sensual charm and charisma. Her influence extended beyond the screen, as she became a national icon in France, with her features being chosen as the model for the national emblem, Marianne. However, her second career as an animal rights activist proved equally impactful. Bardot traveled the world to expose animal cruelty, from the Arctic seal hunt to laboratory experiments, and even advocated for the rights of dolphins and wolves. In her later years, Bardot's activism took on a more extremist tone, and her far-right views led to her being convicted of inciting racial hatred five times in French courts. Her marriage to Bernard d'Ormale, an adviser to the National Front leader, Jean-Marie Le Pen, further polarized her public image. Bardot's life was also marked by personal struggles, including a tumultuous relationship with her first husband, Jacques Charrier, and a tumultuous childhood. She once described her pregnancy as 'a tumour growing inside me,' and spoke of her father's strict discipline. In her 1996 autobiography, Bardot reflected on her difficult upbringing and her struggles with fame. She wrote, 'I was looking for roots then, but I had none to offer.' Her later years saw her reinventing herself as an animal rights lobbyist, abandoning her jet-set lifestyle and selling off her movie memorabilia to create a foundation dedicated to preventing animal cruelty. Bardot's legacy is complex and multifaceted, reflecting both her enduring impact on French cinema and her tireless advocacy for animal welfare. As the world mourns her passing, her commitment to speaking out for those who cannot defend themselves will be remembered as a testament to her courage and conviction.