Local authorities in France have announced that the funeral of renowned actress and animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot will take place next week in the picturesque resort town of Saint-Tropez. Bardot, who passed away at the age of 91 on January 7, 2024, played a significant role in popularizing the coastal destination over her long career.
The ceremony, scheduled for January 7, will be broadcast on large screens at the port and central square, allowing fans and locals to pay their respects. Following the public homage, a private burial will occur at the local cemetery, which offers views of the Mediterranean Sea. Bardot retired from acting in 1973 and spent more than 50 years living in Saint-Tropez, becoming an integral part of the community.
In other news from France, Hollywood power couple George Clooney and Amal Clooney, along with their twins, have been granted French citizenship. The French government announced the naturalizations in the Journal Officiel over the weekend. Amal Clooney, a prominent human rights lawyer, was recognized under her maiden name, Amal Alamuddin. The couple purchased a property in France in 2021, and George Clooney emphasized in a recent interview with Esquire that they consider their French estate their primary residence, seeking a more tranquil life away from Hollywood’s fast pace.
Meanwhile, the entertainment world is abuzz with the release of a new documentary featuring actor Chevy Chase. Titled “I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not,” the film delves into Chase’s multifaceted personality and career, showcasing his journey from a challenging childhood to his success on “Saturday Night Live” and “Community.” Directed by Marina Zenovich, the documentary airs on CNN on New Year’s Day and includes insights from notable figures like Dan Aykroyd and Beverly D’Angelo. Chase has expressed approval of the film, describing it as both painful and beautiful.
In a separate case, actor and director Tyler Perry is facing legal challenges as allegations of assault have surfaced. Actor Mario Rodriguez, known for his role in “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” has filed a lawsuit claiming multiple assaults occurred between 2014 and 2019. Text messages obtained by The Associated Press reveal that Rodriguez maintained contact with Perry years after the alleged incidents, expressing gratitude and discussing financial struggles. Perry’s attorney has dismissed the lawsuit as a “$77 million money grab scam,” while Perry continues to deny the allegations.
On a lighter note, the film industry is seeing a surge in ticket sales as 2025 draws to a close. James Cameron‘s latest installment in the “Avatar” series, “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” has topped box office charts, grossing an estimated $88 million during the busy Christmas weekend. Additionally, indie film “Marty Supreme,” directed by Josh Safdie, has made waves with a remarkable $27.1 million in ticket sales, showcasing the resilience of the film industry during a tumultuous year.
As the new year approaches, the honors list released by King Charles III recognizes various contributions to public life in the UK. Among those honored are actors Idris Elba and Cynthia Erivo, who have both made significant impacts in their respective fields. Elba was knighted for his work with youth through the Elba Hope Foundation, while the list also includes notable figures like ice dancing duo Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean.
These developments highlight the ongoing interplay of culture, law, and celebrity in both France and the broader entertainment landscape, demonstrating the significant impacts these figures have on society.
