At 90 years old, Brigitte Bardot remains an iconic figure of French cinema and an essential personality in popular culture. On March 26, she gave a rare interview to BFMTV. It sheds light on her daily life and her fight for animal protection. Additionally, she discusses the solitude she claims.
Her name remains linked to And God Created Woman by Roger Vadim, released in 1956. This cult film shaped the legend of "BB," propelling her to the status of a global star. From then on, she embodied modernity and freedom in the seventh art, captivating the press and the public.
Today, she still resides at La Madrague, her mythical house in Saint-Tropez acquired in 1958. This intimate refuge, a symbol of independence, shelters her peaceful days, paced by nature, classical music, and reading.
A Day at La Madrague
Every morning, Brigitte Bardot looks after her animals and her home. Indeed, she prefers the authenticity of daily life to the tumult of the spotlight. From 1 PM, she dedicates herself to her foundation, created in 1986. Its mission is to defend the animal cause and raise awareness about cruelty towards animals.
"From 1 PM to 6 PM, I work for my foundation," she confides. She thus manages correspondence, urgent files, and field actions. Her rigor illustrates an unwavering commitment despite the years.
Health Recovered After 2023
In July 2023, Brigitte Bardot experienced respiratory distress that worried her admirers. She now assures that she has overcome this episode. "I have a fiery temperament! It’s hard to bring me down," she declares.
Despite this energy, she acknowledges a certain weariness, fueled by her recent losses. Her eyes mist over when she speaks of those who have left her.
Mourning Her Dog and Alain Delon
On April 20, 2024, her faithful companion E.T. passed away. Since then, Bardot no longer drives her 4L. "I always drove with him. I stopped because I was all alone in the car." This loss deeply affected her, as E.T. represented daily support.
The death of Alain Delon, in August 2024, also shook her. “I am very, very sad. I miss him terribly. We were on the same wavelength.” Their bond was born in 1961, on the set of Famous Love Affairs. Together, they embodied a romantic aspect of French cinema.
An Embraced Solitude
"I have no one left. They have all gone," confides Brigitte Bardot gravely. She claims to have "crossed out a large part of the human population." Indeed, she believes the world now inspires mistrust and sadness.
However, this solitude does not weigh on her as much as one might think. It provides her with a certain peace of mind, allowing her to remember in silence. Moreover, she thinks of the individuals she has loved.
A Clear Vision of Death
Brigitte Bardot does not fear death. "Current life makes death seem like something extraordinary." On the contrary, she sees it as an escape from an era she sometimes finds meaningless.
She compares death to a "silent companion." Present, but not frightening, it is part of a larger cycle. Thus, nature and animals remain central to her.
A Voice Still Advocating for the Animal Cause
Despite her withdrawal from the stage, Bardot remains firm in defending animals. She condemns hunting with hounds, which she calls a "monstrosity." She also opposes all forms of animal exploitation. She insists on the urgency of ending the suffering and injustice inflicted on animals.
She does not fear controversy. This pioneering commitment, sometimes deemed too radical, has nonetheless paved the way for a growing sensitivity to biodiversity and animal welfare.
Legacy of an Icon
As the 70th anniversary of the film that revealed her approaches, Bardot still stands as a French icon. Her roles in Contempt by Jean-Luc Godard or Viva Maria! by Louis Malle have marked several generations. More than an actress, she has become a militant deeply rooted in societal debates.
Her opinions, sometimes labeled as reactionary, regularly cause a stir. Yet, she has often anticipated certain trends. Defending wildlife and flora, protecting beaches, and fighting against animal abuse: these are themes that have become central in current affairs.
An Unwavering Fascination Despite 52 Years of Absence
Bardot retired from cinema in 1973, but her media aura does not wane. She still embodies a mix of curiosity, controversy, and nostalgia. For some, she is the symbol of an era where lightness and carefreeness reigned. For others, she remains the figure of a strong woman, ready to defend her ideas.
Her exclusive interviews make headlines, while social media ignites at her every statement. Her personal life, her friendship with Delon, and her ecological commitment continuously fuel the media’s interest. Moreover, her freedom of speech also contributes to this constant interest.
Her confessions to BFMTV remind us that beyond the Bardot myth, there is a wounded but standing woman. Always rebellious, always uncompromising, she continues to leave her mark on French society. With her battles and contradictions, Brigitte Bardot persists in embodying one of the most remarkable personalities in France.
