A proposal by France’s political right to hold a national tribute for legendary actress Brigitte Bardot has triggered debate across the political spectrum following her death at the age of 91.
Right-wing leader Éric Ciotti has urged President Emmanuel Macron to organise a national homage, describing Bardot as a symbol of France and likening her to Marianne, the emblem of the French Republic whose likeness she famously embodied in the 1960s. Ciotti launched a petition backing the idea, which has gathered more than 23,000 signatures and received support from figures on the far right.
Bardot, who died on Sunday, was praised by President Macron as a “legend of the century” who represented freedom and helped shape France’s international image. Ciotti argued that she deserved national recognition for her cultural influence and her role in advancing women’s liberation and abortion rights.
However, the proposal has drawn criticism from left-wing politicians. Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure said national tributes should be reserved for those who provided “exceptional service to the nation,” noting that Bardot had distanced herself from republican values later in life. He also pointed to her multiple convictions for inciting racial hatred.
Despite her iconic film career — which included nearly 50 films and a breakthrough role in And God Created Woman in 1956 — Bardot remained a controversial public figure. After retiring from cinema in 1973, she devoted her life to animal welfare but also became associated with far-right views, including remarks targeting Muslims and residents of France’s overseas territories.
Green MP Sandrine Rousseau criticised what she described as the contradiction between Bardot’s advocacy for animal rights and her stance on humanitarian issues, particularly migration.
Not all figures on the left oppose the idea of a national tribute. Socialist MP Philippe Brun said such homages have been granted to cultural icons before, including singer Johnny Hallyday, and should not be ruled out if approved by the president.
Meanwhile, the mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, announced that the city would name a prominent site in Bardot’s honour.
Friends of the actress have suggested that a major public ceremony may go against her wishes. Bardot had long avoided public life, preferring a quiet existence surrounded by animals at her home in Saint-Tropez. Close associates said she favoured a simple and private farewell.
Bardot will be buried near her family’s graves in the marine cemetery in Saint-Tropez. Her funeral is scheduled for 7 January at the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church, with the ceremony broadcast on screens across the town, according to the Brigitte Bardot Foundation.
