French actress Brigitte Bardot, who has died aged 91, arguably redefined cinematic allure, captivating the world as a 1950s screen icon.
From her breakout appearance in 'And God Created Woman' to her provocative roles in 'The Truth', 'Contempt', and 'Viva Maria!', she pioneered a fresh image of female sexuality and liberation on screen, before dedicating her life to animal rights.
Bardot's life was one of glamour, controversy, and conviction.
Born in Paris in 1934, Bardot trained as a ballerina before her striking beauty caught the eye of filmmakers. At 18, she married director Roger Vadim, who cast her in 'And God Created Woman', a provocative film that launched her to international stardom. Bardot's sensual, carefree persona in this French New Wave classic redefined femininity and made her a Cannes sensation.
Through the late 1950s and 1960s, Bardot became a global phenomenon with roles in 'The Truth', earning critical acclaim for her dramatic depth, and 'Contempt', a Jean-Luc Godard masterpiece, and 'Viva Maria!', showcasing her comedic flair alongside Jeanne Moreau. Her tousled hair and bold eyeliner set fashion trends worldwide, while her performances cemented Bardot as a cinematic trailblazer.
Though she retired from acting in 1973 at the height of her fame to champion animal rights, founding the Brigitte Bardot Foundation and campaigning against seal hunting and animal testing, her later years were marred by controversies due to her comments on race and homophobia, leaving an indelible but complex legacy in the hearts of many.
Settling in Saint-Tropez, Bardot embraced a quieter life, yet she remained a potent symbol of 1960s glamour and a pioneer for animal rights. Her impact on film and activism continues to resonate, even as her later actions sparked debate.
