The world knows Brigitte Bardot as one of the most iconic figures in cinema — but to us, and to millions of animals across the globe, her most important role has always been animal defender.
In 1977, Bardot joined our founder, Brian Davies, on the frozen ice floes of Newfoundland. There, she came face-to-face with the horror of the commercial seal hunt. The brutal slaughter of baby seals — something the world had barely seen — became a global outrage thanks to Bardot’s courage to witness it, and her determination to speak out. That moment ignited her transformation from film star to full-time animal rights activist.
She became a powerful public ally to Brian and our work, helping to raise awareness and support when few dared to take a stand.
In 1986, she founded the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, dedicating her personal wealth and platform to the fight against animal cruelty. From the fur trade to slaughterhouses, from circus exploitation to the protection of dogs, cats, and wild animals, Bardot has spent the last four decades giving her voice to those without one.
Her impact is impossible to measure — but it is felt in every victory for animals, every law passed, every rescue funded, and every heart awakened to compassion.
We are proud to have stood alongside her, then and now.
Brigitte, thank you — for standing on the ice, for standing with Brian, and for standing up for animals everywhere.
