France Divided on Brigitte Bardot Tribute Amid Controversial Far-Right Views

France is currently facing a deep divide regarding how to honor the legacy of Brigitte Bardot, an iconic film star who passed away at the age of 91. Bardot, who died at her home in the south of France, is known for her significant contributions to cinema and her later controversial political views. Her passing has sparked a mix of tributes and debates among French politicians.

Brigitte Bardot: A Cinematic Legend

Bardot rose to fame with her role in the 1956 film “And God Created Woman” and starred in approximately 50 films throughout her career. In 1973, she shifted her focus from acting to animal rights activism, a cause that became her passion. Despite her contributions to cinema, Bardot’s later life was marred by controversy due to her far-right views and multiple convictions for hate speech, mainly targeting Muslims.

Political Reactions to Bardot’s Death

The announcement of Bardot’s death has garnered varied reactions across the political spectrum in France. President Emmanuel Macron described her as a “legend” who encapsulated a life of freedom. In stark contrast, many left-wing politicians expressed reservations about her political affiliations.

Right-Wing Tribute

• Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally party, praised Bardot as “incredibly French” and described her spirit as free and untameable.
• Eric Ciotti, a conservative politician, proposed a national farewell in Bardot’s honor, similar to the tribute for Johnny Hallyday, and initiated an online petition that garnered over 7,000 signatures by Monday.

Left-Wing Criticism

• Philippe Brun, a Socialist party member, acknowledged Bardot as a significant figure but hinted at her controversial views.
• Fabien Roussel, leader of the Communist party, recognized Bardot’s divisive nature while affirming her contribution to cinema.
• Sandrine Rousseau from the Greens Party criticized her duality, remarking on her focus on animal rights while neglecting humanitarian issues.

Funeral Wishes and Legacy

Bardot had expressed a desire for a simple funeral in her garden, wishing to be buried with a wooden cross, similar to the graves of her beloved animals. This burial decision is subject to approval from local authorities. Saint-Tropez officials confirmed that her burial will take place in a local seaside cemetery, although a specific date has not been announced.

Brigitte Bardot’s Early Life and Impact

Born on September 28, 1934, in Paris, Bardot grew up in a comfortable Catholic family. Married four times, she had a son, Nicolas-Jacques Charrier, with her second husband, Jacques Charrier. Following her retirement from cinema, Bardot devoted her life to animal rights, inspired by a personal experience during her last film shoot. Bardot’s influence extended beyond cinema, as she used her fame to advocate for animal protection, a cause she described as her true passion.

As France reflects on Bardot’s legacy, the conversation surrounding her life continues to generate significant discourse, highlighting the complexities of her contributions to both cinema and social issues.