Brigitte Bardot Says Reports of Her Death Are “Fake News”

French screen legend and animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot is very much alive — and making sure the world knows it. The 91-year-old actress, who turned 91 in September, publicly shut down false reports claiming she had died, assuring fans she is “doing well.”

In a post to her official X account on Wednesday, Oct. 22, Bardot wrote in French:

“I don’t know who is the idiot who started this ‘fake news’ about my disappearance but know that I am doing well and I have no plan on taking my bow. A word to the wise.”

The statement comes after a social media rumor — started by influencer Aqababe (real name Aniss Zitouni) — falsely claimed that Bardot had passed away and even alleged that “her coffin was ordered.” The influencer later deleted the post but continued to insist Bardot herself does not manage her X account.

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Hospitalization Reports Sparked Concern

The death hoax followed earlier reports that Bardot had been hospitalized in Toulon, France, for nearly three weeks. On Oct. 16, French newspaper Var-Matin reported that the former actress underwent surgery as part of treatment for a “serious illness.”

However, Bardot’s office clarified days later that she had a minor surgery and was recovering at home in St. Tropez, telling AFP that the operation “went well.” The statement added that Bardot expressed gratitude to the staff and surgical team at the Saint-Jean Private Hospital in Toulon.

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Bardot’s Life Today

Once one of the most iconic faces of French cinema, Bardot retired from acting in the 1970s and has since devoted her life to animal rights activism through the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, established in 1986.

Despite occasional health scares — and persistent rumors about her wellbeing — Bardot has remained outspoken and active, especially on social media, where she continues to advocate for animal welfare and environmental protection.

Her response this week served as both a reassurance to fans and a rebuke to those spreading misinformation.

“I am doing well,” Bardot emphasized. “And I have no plan on taking my bow.”