Saint-Tropez mourns French movie icon Brigitte Bardot

The passing of French actress Brigitte Bardot on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at the age of 91 marks the vanishing of an icon of world cinema. Beyond her carrier and her engagement for the protection of animals, the actress was a driving force to the tourism reputation of the small town of Saint-Tropez, in Southern France.

In 2024, the city of only 3,500 permanent residents received nearly 17.7 million visitors and over €2.4 million in generated tourist tax. In its summer peak days, the town can attract up to 80,000 visitors!

In an official release, the city acknowledges the loss of Bardot. ” It is with deep emotion and great sadness that the City of Saint-Tropez learned of the passing of Mrs. Brigitte Bardot, this Sunday, December 28, 2025, at the age of 91. Icon of French cinema and international figure, Brigitte Bardot will forever be associated with Saint-Tropez, of which she was the most radiant ambassador. Thru her presence, her personality, and her aura, she has left her mark on the history of our town and helped to make Saint-Tropez shine throughout the world,” highlights the statement.

She will forever be associated with the Provence town, which promises to continue to pay tribute to her “through the foundation that bears her name”.

Bardot transformed Saint-Tropez into a celebrities’ destination

In 1958, Bardot bought a house, “La Madrague”. The actress sudden love affair with the waterfront house became her bohemian sanctuary frequented by artists, singers, and close friends. In the 1970s, the house became her mythical refuge, when she decided to permanently reside there, and one of the most emblematic properties in Saint-Tropez.

Bardot presence, although relatively discreet, turned the small fishing port of Saint-Tropez into a global symbol of glamour and luxury. Along the harbor, locals still whisper that Bardot did more for Saint-Tropez’s reputation than all tourism campaigns combined.

The sun-drenched icon used to wander barefoot through the narrow streets, hair loose in the wind, surrounded by animals, embodying a Tropezian freedom that mirrored her own spirit.

Bardot soul remains everywhere in the small town: at Pampelonne Beach, in the nights at the Byblos, Saint-Tropez 5-star luxury property, and in the awed gazes of visitors from around the world. The actress presence turned the small town into a celebrities paradise with its clubs and private villas. Among them are Elton John, George Clooney, Leonardo de Caprio or Beyonce…

The actress house to become a museum

Bardot donated the property to her animals’ Foundation in 1991 while retaining usufruct rights. This meant she legally had the right to use and enjoy the property. In 1992, France’s State Council recognized La Madrague as being of public interest.

Following her death, the property will be turned into a museum. “A museum not to glorify Brigitte Bardot,” she wrote in her memories book. “But a museum that reflects who I am, retracing my human life and my dream for animals. My final wishes are already settled: everything at La Madrague will remain intact. My furniture will stay where it is, my installations, objects, and trinkets will continue to populate my world.”

“In this way,” she added, “my interior and my way of life will be open to the curious. But for once, the idolatry I was subjected to during my lifetime will finally be justified. Because it will be for a good cause.”