France bids farewell to Hollywood legend Brigitte Bardot as she's laid to rest in Saint-Tropez. The 91-year-old actress, who died last month after a battle with cancer, was given a grand sendoff in her hometown. Her funeral ceremony, which aired live across the town, featured a eulogy from her son Nicolas-Jacques Charrier and appearances by several high-profile guests, including far-right leader Marine Le Pen.
Le Pen, a longtime admirer of Bardot's work, was seen in attendance at the service, where she reportedly expressed her admiration for the late actress. The two women had a mutual respect for each other, with Bardot once calling Le Pen "a modern-day Joan of Arc."
Bardot's legacy as an animal rights activist will be honored at the funeral, with many expected to pay tribute to her tireless work in protecting marine life and combating animal cruelty. However, not everyone shares this sentiment. Sandrine Rousseau, a politician from the Greens party, criticized Bardot for prioritizing the welfare of dolphins over human lives lost at sea.
The ceremony was attended by a who's who of French celebrities, including singers Jean-Roch and Mireille Mathieu, TV personality Caroline Margeridon, and marine conservationist Paul Watson. The service was also broadcast on large screens across Saint-Tropez, where it drew thousands of mourners who gathered to pay their respects.
Bardot's passing has sparked a range of reactions, from tributes and condolences to criticisms of her views on animal rights and immigration. However, for many in France, she will be remembered as an iconic figure and a champion of social justice.
Le Pen, a longtime admirer of Bardot's work, was seen in attendance at the service, where she reportedly expressed her admiration for the late actress. The two women had a mutual respect for each other, with Bardot once calling Le Pen "a modern-day Joan of Arc."
Bardot's legacy as an animal rights activist will be honored at the funeral, with many expected to pay tribute to her tireless work in protecting marine life and combating animal cruelty. However, not everyone shares this sentiment. Sandrine Rousseau, a politician from the Greens party, criticized Bardot for prioritizing the welfare of dolphins over human lives lost at sea.
The ceremony was attended by a who's who of French celebrities, including singers Jean-Roch and Mireille Mathieu, TV personality Caroline Margeridon, and marine conservationist Paul Watson. The service was also broadcast on large screens across Saint-Tropez, where it drew thousands of mourners who gathered to pay their respects.
Bardot's passing has sparked a range of reactions, from tributes and condolences to criticisms of her views on animal rights and immigration. However, for many in France, she will be remembered as an iconic figure and a champion of social justice.