French Right Pushes for National Tribute to Film Star Brigitte Bardot
In the wake of Brigitte Bardot’s passing at the age of 91, the French right is advocating for a national tribute to the iconic actress. Notably, right-wing figure Éric Ciotti has spearheaded this initiative, sparking a debate among political factions.
– Ciotti’s Call for Recognition: Éric Ciotti emphasized that France has a duty to honor its Marianne, referring to the emblem of French liberty, which Bardot represented in the 1960s.
– Petition Momentum: Following her death, Ciotti launched a petition that has garnered over 23,000 signatures, gaining support from various allies on the far right.
Controversial Legacy of Bardot
Despite her status as an iconic film star, Bardot’s legacy remains divisive.
– Socialist Opposition: Socialist leader Olivier Faure contends that national tributes should be reserved for those who have rendered exceptional services to the nation. He argues that Bardot, while revered in cinema, turned her back on republican values.
– Presidential Acknowledgment: President Emmanuel Macron referred to Bardot as a legend of the century, celebrating her embodiment of freedom. Ciotti has appealed directly to the president for a national send-off, highlighting Bardot’s contributions to women’s liberty and abortion rights.
Local Honors and National Discussion
The mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, announced plans to name an iconic site in Bardot’s honor, reflecting her impact on French culture.
– Bardot’s Cinema Legacy: She starred in around 50 films, rising to fame with And God Created Woman in 1956 before retiring from acting in 1973 to focus on animal welfare at her Saint-Tropez residence, La Madrague.
– Controversial Statements: Bardot’s comments during her life drew significant backlash; she faced convictions for inciting racial hatred and made inflammatory remarks about various communities.
Varied Opinions on a National Tribute
The discourse surrounding potential tributes to Bardot reveals stark divisions among political leaders.
– Green MP’s Critique: Sandrine Rousseau questioned the sincerity of highlighting Bardot’s concern for animals while ignoring migrant crises in the Mediterranean.
– Tribute Comparisons: National tributes in France can vary in scope. Bardot’s tribute could mirror the public farewell given to rock star Johnny Hallyday in 2017, which drew large crowds, or be more subdued like the tributes to Robert Badinter and Charles Aznavour.
Interestingly, not all left-leaning politicians oppose the idea of honoring Bardot. Socialist MP Philippe Brun commented, Why not? We’ve done it for other figures, particularly Johnny Hallyday.
Bardot’s Personal Wishes
Bardot herself had shunned public recognition for years.
– A Life of Simplicity: Close friend Wendy Bouchard noted that Bardot was indifferent to medals and ceremonies, suggesting a national homage might not align with her values.
– Intimate Burial Wishes: Journalist Steven Bellery reported that Bardot expressed a desire for a simple and intimate burial at her home rather than in a public cemetery, fearing potential vandalism.
The town hall in Saint-Tropez confirmed that she would receive a private burial in the public cemetery that overlooks the Mediterranean. Her funeral, organized by the Brigitte Bardot Foundation dedicated to animal welfare, is scheduled for January 7 at the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church, with plans to broadcast the ceremony across the town.
As the discussion surrounding Brigitte Bardot’s life and legacy continues, her impact on both French cinema and social discourse remains undeniable.