Hundreds Gather in Saint-Tropez to Bid Farewell to Brigitte Bardot

Renowned film star of the 1960s, Brigitte Bardot, was laid to rest during a private ceremony on Wednesday in Saint-Tropez, with an open public tribute following in the town that became her long-time home after retiring.

Known as an advocate for animal rights and a figure supporting right-wing politics, Bardot passed away at her residence in the south of France. Following her death, President Emmanuel Macron remarked that France was bidding farewell to an icon.

Her husband, Bernard d'Ormale, disclosed that Bardot battled cancer before her passing, having undergone surgery twice. Until her last days, she remained passionately engaged with animal welfare.

In a poignant gesture, locals and fans lined the narrow streets to honor Bardot as her procession made its way through town. The poignant service included the music of Maria Callas' 'Ave Maria' at the Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Church, attended by family and close friends, alongside members of her animal foundation.

Hundreds assembled to participate in the tribute via large screens displayed around the town's harbor and plazas. Following the service, a private burial was planned at a scenic cemetery with Mediterranean vistas.

Saint-Tropez, which she often referred to as her retreat from the limelight, will additionally host a public ceremony celebrating Bardot's enduring influence as a symbol of France's cultural renaissance post-World War II.

Bardot's legacy is tightly woven into the fabric of Saint-Tropez, as noted by local officials, who praised her as a brilliant emissary of the locale's history through her presence and the allure she brought.

In retirement, Bardot resided at her beloved seaside villa, La Madrague. Her withdrawal from cinema happened in 1973, following an illustrious film career with over 20 features to her credit. She then channeled her passion into animal activism, founding a dedicated organization focused on the cause.

Bardot's activism led to her being honored with the prestigious Legion of Honor in 1985, reflecting her standing among her fellow countrymen.

While distancing herself from filmmaking, Bardot embraced a new role as a prominent and sometimes controversial advocate for animal rights and as an influencer in societal discourse through her associations.

Her final resting place will be the marine cemetery, shared with her parents and notable cultural figures, including her first husband Roger Vadim, who propelled her to stardom with the film 'And God Created Woman.'