Brigitte Bardot: The life and career of the 1950s screen icon in pictures

The French actress redefined cinematic allure, captivating the world before championing animal rights.

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From her breakout appearance in And God Created Woman to her provocative roles in The Truth, Contempt, and Viva Maria! she pioneered a fresh image of female sexuality and liberation on screen, before dedicating her life to animal rights.

Bardot's life was one of glamour, controversy, and conviction.

Born in Paris in 1934, Bardot trained as a ballerina before her striking beauty caught the eye of filmmakers.

At 18, she married director Roger Vadim, who cast her in And God Created Woman, a provocative film that launched her to international stardom.