French Right Sparks Debate Over National Tribute to Iconic Bardot

Brigitte Bardot, a legendary French actress and animal rights activist, passed away on Sunday at the age of 91. Bardot was famous for her roles in about 50 films, starting with her breakout performance in 'And God Created Woman' in 1956. After leaving the movie industry in 1973, she dedicated her life to caring for animals and became a well-known animal rights supporter. Bardot lived for many years in Saint-Tropez, where she enjoyed a quiet life away from the public eye. Now, there is a debate in France about whether she should receive a national tribute. Éric Ciotti, a right-wing political leader, has called for a national ceremony to honor Bardot. He believes that Bardot deserves this recognition because she represented Marianne, the symbol of French liberty, in the 1960s. Ciotti started a petition that has already gathered over 23,000 signatures, and some politicians on the far right support his idea.

However, not everyone agrees with Ciotti. Olivier Faure, the leader of the Socialist party, argued that national tributes are meant for people who have given exceptional service to the country. He said that while Bardot was an iconic actress, she also turned her back on some of France's republican values. Bardot was convicted five times for making comments that were considered hateful towards certain groups. Some of her remarks targeted Muslims and people from the French island of Réunion. This has made her a controversial figure, even after her death. Green party member Sandrine Rousseau questioned how someone could care so much about animals but not show the same concern for people in need.

Despite the controversy, some people on the left are open to the idea of a tribute. Socialist MP Philippe Brun said that if the president decides to honor Bardot, there is no reason to oppose it. The mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, announced that a special place in the city will be named after Bardot. Bardot herself did not want a big ceremony. Her close friend Wendy Bouchard said that Bardot preferred a simple life and would not have wanted a national tribute. Bardot will be buried near her family's graves in Saint-Tropez, and her funeral will be held at the Notre-Dame de l'Assomption church. The Brigitte Bardot Foundation, which she created to help animals, will make sure her funeral is shown on screens around the town so people can pay their respects. Bardot's life and legacy continue to spark discussion in France, as people remember her for both her achievements and her controversies.