Brigitte Bardot: Death, Wealth, and Marriages Revealed
A Legacy of Glamour and Activism
Brigitte Bardot, the iconic French actress and symbol of female liberation in the mid-20th century, passed away at the age of 91. Her death marked the end of an era, as she was one of the last great stars of her time. Throughout her life, she left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the world of animal rights activism.
Bardot's journey was defined by her global stardom and her passionate dedication to animal protection. She founded the Brigitte Bardot Foundation in 1986, an organization that became the focus of her later years. The foundation continues to carry forward her mission of protecting animals and advocating for their welfare.
Peaceful Passing and Final Days
The news of her passing was officially confirmed on 28 December 2025. Bardot died peacefully at her famous estate, La Madrague, in Saint-Tropez, where she had lived in relative seclusion for many years. While no specific medical cause of death has been publicly disclosed, it is believed that she passed away due to natural causes related to her advanced age.
In the years leading up to her death, Bardot had become increasingly frail but remained sharp-witted and deeply committed to her cause. She spent her final days in the tranquil setting of her home, surrounded by the animals she loved. Her ability to transition from a global sex symbol to a dedicated animal rights activist remains one of the most remarkable transformations in the history of French entertainment.
A Life of Love and Controversy
Bardot's personal life was as dramatic as the films she starred in. She was married four times, each relationship capturing the attention of the media and the public. Her first marriage was to Roger Vadim, the director of her breakout film "And God Created Woman." Their relationship began when she was just 16, and they married after her 18th birthday, despite her parents' initial opposition.
Although their marriage ended in 1957, they remained close friends until his death. Bardot's affair with co-star Jean-Louis Trintignant caused significant controversy and contributed to the end of their marriage.
Her second marriage to Jacques Charrier, a fellow actor, lasted from 1959 to 1962. This period was particularly challenging for Bardot, as the constant media scrutiny took a toll on her personal life. The pressure from the paparazzi made it difficult for her to maintain a stable relationship.
Her third marriage to Gunter Sachs, a German billionaire and photographer, was marked by grand gestures of love. One of the most famous moments was when he arranged for a helicopter to drop thousands of red roses over her villa before their wedding in Las Vegas in 1966.
Finally, her fourth and longest marriage was to Bernard d'Ormale, which lasted from 1992 until her death. The couple enjoyed a quiet, private life at her estate in Saint-Tropez, far from the public eye.
Financial Success and Lasting Influence
At the time of her passing, Bardot's net worth was estimated at roughly £48 million ($65 million). Her wealth came primarily from her film royalties, earnings from her best-selling books, and her extensive real estate holdings along the French Riviera.
Despite retiring from the spotlight in 1973, Bardot's financial success continued to grow. Unlike many celebrities who lose their wealth after leaving the industry, she maintained a comfortable lifestyle thanks to her ongoing income from her work and properties.
She is survived by her husband, Bernard d'Ormale, and her only son, Nicolas-Jacques Charrier, who is now 65 years old.
A Lasting Impact
Brigitte Bardot's life was a blend of glamour, controversy, and unwavering commitment to her beliefs. From her early days as a film star to her later years as an animal rights advocate, she left a lasting impact on both the entertainment world and the global movement for animal welfare. Her legacy continues to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.
