At a Glance
- Chappell Roan retracts praise for Brigitte Bardot after learning about her far-right ties.
- Bardot dies Sunday at age 91, having been hospitalized in the month before.
- Roan had previously honored Bardot in her 2023 single and at her Best New Artist award speech.
- Why it matters: The singer’s reversal highlights how artists grapple with the political legacies of the icons they admire.
Grammy-winning singer Chappell Roan publicly apologized for earlier praise of late French star Brigitte Bardot after discovering the icon’s far-right political history. Bardot, who died Sunday at 91, had been a controversial figure, known for both animal-rights activism and support of the National Front. Roan’s statement has sparked debate over how public figures handle the legacies of celebrated artists.
Roan’s Instagram Apology
In a post on her Instagram Stories, Roan wrote, “Holy ___ i did not know all that insane ___ Ms. Bardot stood for. I do not condone this. Very disappointing to learn.” She added that she did not condone Bardot’s beliefs and called the revelations “very disappointing.” Roan’s comments came after Bardot’s death prompted tributes from politicians across the spectrum.
Chappell Roan stated:
> “Holy ___ i did not know all that insane ___ Ms. Bardot stood for. I do not condone this. Very disappointing to learn.”
Chappell Roan wrote:
> “Rest in peace Ms. Bardot. She was my inspiration for red wine supernova.”
Bardot’s Political and Humanitarian Legacy
Bardot, famed for roles in And God Created Woman and Contempt, later gravitated toward the French far-right, facing fines for inciting racial hatred against Muslim immigrants. She publicly supported National Front leader Jean-Marie Le Pen and was married to his adviser Bernard d’Ormale. Despite her political stance, Bardot was also a committed animal-rights advocate, founding a foundation that lobbied for welfare legislation and secured convictions against abuse.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Far-right activism | Supported Le Pen, fined for inciting racial hatred |
| Animal-rights work | Founded foundation, lobbied for legislation |
| Death | 91, at home, cause not disclosed |
Bardot’s death drew praise from President Emmanuel Macron and far-right leader Jordan Bardella, reflecting the divided perception of her legacy.
Key Takeaways
- Roan’s reversal underscores the impact of political revelations on artistic admiration.
- Bardot’s legacy remains contested, blending cultural influence with extremist politics.
- The singer’s public apology highlights the scrutiny artists face over their influences.
The reversal by Roan serves as a reminder of how public figures confront the complex histories of the icons they celebrate.
