Brigitte Bardot’s final farewell took place on Wednesday in Saint-Tropez, where she resided for over 50 years post-retirement from her iconic movie career. The renowned animal rights advocate and conservative figure passed away at 91 in southern France on December 28 due to cancer complications following two surgeries, as confirmed by her husband, Bernard d’Ormale.
During the private service and public tribute, locals and fans paid their respects as Bardot’s casket, once belonging to the era’s most photographed and captivating screen stars, was carried through the town’s streets. The ceremony commenced with a rendition of Maria Callas’ “Ave Maria” at the Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption Catholic Church. Attendees included Bardot’s family, close friends, and guests invited by the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, dedicated to animal welfare.
Mourners gathered in Saint-Tropez to witness the emotional event on large screens set up at the port and plazas, reflecting on Bardot’s deep connection to the town where she sought solace away from the limelight. Her final resting place is a secluded cemetery overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, alongside other notable figures like filmmaker Roger Vadim, her first husband.
Bardot, known for her roles in over two dozen films before retiring in 1973 at age 39, spent her later years at her coastal residence, La Madrague. Despite withdrawing from acting, she remained in the public eye due to her active involvement in animal rights causes and controversial views, which led to legal issues over racial remarks and opposition to certain practices.