French Icon Brigitte Bardot Dies at 91

Brigitte Bardot, the legendary French actress and animal rights activist, has died at the age of 91, leaving behind a lasting legacy in both cinema and humanitarian work, according to Agence France-Presse.

Born on September 28, 1934, in Paris, Bardot rose to international fame in the 1950s and 1960s as a symbol of beauty, freedom, and boldness. She began her career as a ballet dancer and model before achieving worldwide recognition with the 1956 film “And God Created Woman”, portraying a liberated teenage character that captivated audiences.

Over her career, she starred in more than 40 films, including *Very Special Case* (1962), and recorded songs with French singer Serge Gainsbourg before retiring from acting in 1973 at the age of 39.

Bardot was married four times and had one son. She faced personal struggles, including depression and suicide attempts, stemming from the pressures of fame and the entertainment industry. In 1986, she founded the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the Protection of Animals, raising approximately 3 million francs through personal auctions.

She became a prominent advocate against animal hunting, promoted animal rights, and campaigned against meat consumption.

In her later years, Bardot lived in the French coastal town of Saint-Tropez, where she continued her humanitarian work until her passing. Her influence endures as both a cinematic icon and a leading voice in animal rights.