Why Did Crowds Flock to Saint-Tropez for Bardot's Funeral?

Brigitte Bardot, the iconic French actress who transformed the landscape of 1950s cinema, was laid to rest in Saint-Tropez on Wednesday, with a crowd gathering to honour her legacy. The funeral, though intended to be a modest affair as per her wishes, turned into a heartfelt tribute from the local community, reflecting her impact on the region and French culture. Bardot passed away from cancer at the age of 91, just three days after Christmas, leaving behind an indelible mark on both film and animal rights activism.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The funeral of Brigitte Bardot has reignited discussions about her complex legacy in France. While she was celebrated for her contributions to cinema and her role as a cultural icon, her later life marked by controversial remarks and far-right political affiliations complicates her public perception. In Saint-Tropez, a town forever changed by her fame, residents gathered to pay their respects, demonstrating a blend of admiration and nostalgia for the actress who helped define an era.

Key takeaways

Brigitte Bardot passed away on 28 December 2022, and her funeral took place on 10 October 2023.
Despite her wishes for a simple ceremony, the people of Saint-Tropez turned out en masse to honour her legacy.
Notable attendees included political figures such as Marine le Pen and Aurore Bergé.

Timeline: how we got here

Brigitte Bardot's life and career are marked by significant events that shaped her legacy:

1934: Brigitte Bardot is born in Paris, France.
1956: She rose to fame with the film And God Created Woman, becoming a symbol of sexual liberation.
1973: Bardot retires from acting to focus on animal rights activism.
2022: Bardot's health deteriorates, and she passes away on 28 December.
2023: Her funeral is held on 10 October in Saint-Tropez, attended by numerous admirers and dignitaries.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The funeral service for Bardot has highlighted her lasting influence in France, with her hometown showing a strong turnout that exceeded expectations for a low-key event. The attendance of political figures underlines her complex relationship with contemporary society.

What was already established

Brigitte Bardot's legacy as a cinematic pioneer and cultural icon is well-documented. She acted in nearly 50 films and became synonymous with the sexual liberation movement of the 1950s. However, her later years were marked by controversy due to her political views and inflammatory statements.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While Bardot's death primarily resonates within French culture, her legacy also reaches UK audiences who appreciate classic cinema. This event may influence how her films are marketed and remembered in the UK, potentially sparking renewed interest in her body of work.

Businesses and jobs

The tourism industry in Saint-Tropez may experience a temporary boost as fans of Bardot and classic cinema visit to pay homage. Additionally, her impact on fashion and cinema may continue to inspire new ventures in the creative industries.

Policy and regulation

Bardot's strong advocacy for animal rights may reignite discussions around animal welfare policies, potentially influencing UK legislations as well. Her legacy could motivate further actions in animal rights activism both in France and the UK, particularly among younger generations.

Numbers that matter

91: Age at which Brigitte Bardot passed away.
50: Number of films she acted in during her career.
3: Days after Christmas when she died, emphasising the timing of her passing during a festive period.
1: Her only son, Nicolas-Jacques Charrier, who was present at her funeral.

Definitions and jargon buster

Animal rights activism: Advocacy for the ethical treatment and welfare of non-human animals.
Sexual liberation: A social movement that seeks to free individuals from traditional sexual norms and constraints.
Far-right politics: Political ideologies that typically emphasize nationalism, traditional values, and often a restrictive approach to immigration and social issues.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate aftermath of her funeral, conversations around Bardot's influence on cinema and society will likely continue, highlighting both her artistic contributions and the controversies surrounding her later life.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As discussions about animal rights gain traction, Bardot's legacy may serve as a rallying point for advocacy groups in both France and the UK. Events or exhibitions celebrating her life and work could emerge, drawing in audiences interested in classic cinema.

Signals to watch

Responses from animal rights organisations regarding Bardot's influence.
Media coverage of her films and their relevance in contemporary culture.
Public sentiment towards her complicated legacy in social and political contexts.

Practical guidance

Do

Explore Bardot's films to understand her impact on cinema.
Engage with animal rights groups to learn more about current issues.
Follow discussions around cultural icons and their legacies.

Don’t

Dismiss the complexities of Bardot's life based solely on her later controversies.
Overlook the historical context of her influence on the cultural landscape.
Ignore the ongoing discussions about animal rights sparked by her advocacy.

Checklist

Watch one of Bardot's iconic films.
Read about her contributions to animal welfare.
Reflect on the impact of cultural figures on societal norms.
Stay updated on animal rights legislation in the UK.
Consider how public figures shape discussions around social issues.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

Brigitte Bardot's legacy is complex, marked by both her cinematic achievements and her controversial political views. It is essential to approach her life with a nuanced perspective, recognising the multifaceted nature of public figures. As discussions about her life continue, there may be divergent opinions regarding her impact and the appropriateness of her later statements, which could lead to polarised views.

Bottom line

Brigitte Bardot's funeral has underscored her significance in French culture and the arts, while also highlighting the complexities of her legacy. As France reflects on her life, the UK can also learn from her story, especially in terms of cultural representation and the evolution of public personas. Understanding her influence can help foster deeper discussions about the responsibilities of public figures in shaping societal norms and values.

FAQs

What is Brigitte Bardot known for?

Brigitte Bardot is known for her role in revolutionising 1950s French cinema and for her advocacy for animal rights. Her films and cultural impact made her a significant figure in the history of cinema.

What happened at Brigitte Bardot's funeral?

Brigitte Bardot's funeral was attended by a large crowd in Saint-Tropez, despite her wishes for a modest service. Applause greeted her coffin as it was transported through the town, reflecting her enduring legacy.

What controversies surrounded Brigitte Bardot later in life?

Later in her life, Bardot faced backlash for making homophobic remarks and was fined for inciting racial hatred. Her far-right political views alienated her from many in the French political landscape.