Post by : Meena Ariff

Brigitte Bardot’s funeral ceremony is officially scheduled for January 7 at 10:00 GMT and will be held at the Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption church in Saint-Tropez, as confirmed by local authorities. While the burial itself will take place in the strictest privacy, a public tribute has been organized to honor the iconic actress and animal rights activist. This tribute will be held at the Pré des Pêcheurs area in La Ponche, the historic center of the old town and the former fishing village where Bardot made her home for many years.

Bardot, who became a symbol of French cinema and culture during the 1950s and 60s, found solace and refuge in Saint-Tropez, a picturesque coastal town on the French Riviera. Over the decades, she dedicated herself to animal welfare, living surrounded by a menagerie of cats, dogs, and horses. Bardot’s commitment to protecting animals became a defining aspect of her later life, earning her respect far beyond the entertainment world.

Residents of Saint-Tropez remember Bardot warmly. Philippe Volmier, a longtime local who knew Bardot for around 30 years, shared personal memories of her kindness. He recalled seeing her often walking her dogs on the beach and even once rescuing her after she accidentally fell into the water alongside her dog. Volmier described Bardot as a “lovely” person and a helpful friend who contributed positively to the community.

The impact of Bardot’s life was also acknowledged at the highest levels of government. French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to her legacy, describing her as embodying “a life of freedom” and calling her “a legend of the century.” Macron praised Bardot’s universal influence, emphasizing how she touched and inspired people across generations and borders.

In recent years, Bardot chose a more private life, residing behind high walls in Saint-Tropez, where she continued to live with her beloved animals. In an interview with French weekly Paris Match in 2024, she expressed a wish to be buried in her garden, reflecting her deep connection to her home and the natural world around her. However, local officials from the Var Prefecture confirmed they had not received any formal request for a private burial, which would have been necessary to honor this wish.

The planned public tribute in La Ponche offers a chance for both locals and fans from around the world to pay their respects to Bardot’s extraordinary life. It is a moment to celebrate not only her contributions to cinema and French culture but also her tireless advocacy for animal rights. As Saint-Tropez and France prepare to say goodbye, Bardot’s enduring spirit and legacy will remain a cherished part of the nation’s history.

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