Debate ignites in France over a national tribute for Brigitte Bardot, the iconic actress and activist, following her death at age 91.

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Debate Over National Tribute Grows After the Death of Brigitte Bardot

By Paul Kirby, Europe digital editor

Calls for a National Homage for Brigitte Bardot

The death of Brigitte Bardot, celebrated French actress and devoted animal rights activist, has sparked a heated debate in France over how she should be honored nationally. Éric Ciotti, a right-wing political leader, has publicly requested a state-led national tribute for Bardot, referring to her as “France’s Marianne” – a symbol of French liberty, which Bardot was chosen to represent in the 1960s.

Since Ciotti launched his petition, it has garnered more than 23,000 signatures and gained backing from several far-right allies. However, the call for such a tribute is divisive, with many prominent left-wing figures voicing objections.

Objections from the French Left

Socialist leader Olivier Faure has pointed out that official national homages are generally reserved for individuals who have provided “exceptional services to the nation.” While acknowledging Bardot’s impact as an iconic movie star, Faure criticized her for “turning her back on republican values.” Bardot’s legal convictions—she was found guilty five times for inciting racial hatred—add to the controversy over whether she deserves such a tribute.

Presidential Support and Other Honours

Despite the division, French President Emmanuel Macron praised Bardot as a “legend of the century,” lauding her international stature and her advocacy for women’s rights, including her outspoken support for abortion rights. Ciotti has formally appealed to Macron to organize a national send-off.

Meanwhile, Christian Estrosi, the mayor of Nice, announced that an “iconic site” in the city would be named in Bardot’s honor, signifying her lasting influence on French culture.

Brigitte Bardot: Her Career and Controversies

Bardot’s cinematic breakthrough came in 1956 with “And God Created Woman,” and she went on to appear in around 50 films before retiring from the screen in 1973. She devoted her later life to animal welfare, establishing the Brigitte Bardot Foundation and residing in Saint-Tropez at her home, La Madrague.

However, Bardot’s legacy is complicated. Alongside her celebrated advocacy for animals, she became known for her far-right political sympathies and controversial statements targeting various groups, including Muslims and the people of Réunion. Politicians like Green MP Sandrine Rousseau have publicly critiqued her perceived contradictions, asking, “To be moved by dolphins, but indifferent to migrants’ deaths—what degree of cynicism is that?”

For more on how national tributes unfold in France, see our article on the public farewell given to rock star Johnny Hallyday.

Variations of National Tribute in France

France offers different types of national tributes. For example, Robert Badinter and singer Charles Aznavour received solemn national ceremonies in recognition of their exceptional contributions. A more probable path for Bardot would be a public farewell ceremony, similar to the one held for Johnny Hallyday, where crowds gathered along the streets in Paris during his procession (BBC News).

Not all left-wing figures oppose a public tribute for Bardot. Socialist MP Philippe Brun remarked, “If the president of the republic decides on it, I don’t see why we should oppose it.”

Bardot’s Own Wishes and Private Burial Plans

Despite the calls for an official tribute, those close to Brigitte Bardot recall her decades-long rejection of public ceremonies and the limelight. Bardot’s friend, Wendy Bouchard, shared that the former actress was “not remotely interested in medals and ceremonies,” preferring a quiet, simple life.

Bardot had requested a simple burial at her Riviera home, La Madrague, fearing damage to her family’s graves in the public cemetery. However, Saint-Tropez officials confirmed she will be privately buried in the marine cemetery overlooking both the Mediterranean and her home.

The Brigitte Bardot Foundation announced her funeral would take place on January 7 at Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church, with the ceremony broadcast publicly throughout Saint-Tropez.

Legacy of Brigitte Bardot

As France debates how best to honor one of its most recognizable figures, the life and legacy of Brigitte Bardot remain as complex and polarizing as the star herself. Whether she receives an official national homage or not, her impact on French culture, cinema, and animal rights is destined to endure.

Read the original article on BBC News