Brigitte Bardot, the French actress who became an international symbol of liberated sexuality in the mid-20th century, died Sunday at the age of 91. Her death was announced in a statement released by her animal rights foundation to Agence France-Presse, though the time and location of her death were not specified.

Bardot rose to prominence in the 1950s and 60s, a period marked by significant social and cultural shifts in the Western world. Her on-screen persona and off-screen life challenged the more conservative norms of the era, particularly regarding female sexuality. She starred in films such as "And God Created Woman" (1956), directed by her then-husband Roger Vadim, which catapulted her to global fame and cemented her image as a sex symbol.

Beyond her film career, Bardot was a model, singer, and fashion icon. Her style, characterized by its effortless chic and rebellious spirit, influenced trends worldwide. She popularized the "Bardot neckline," an off-the-shoulder style, and her hairstyles were widely imitated. She also recorded several albums, including collaborations with Serge Gainsbourg, most notably the song "Bonnie and Clyde."

Bardot's personal life was often the subject of intense media scrutiny. She was married four times and had numerous high-profile relationships, including with actors Warren Beatty and Nino Ferrer.

In later years, Bardot largely withdrew from the entertainment industry and dedicated herself to animal rights activism. She established the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for the Welfare and Protection of Animals in 1986 and became a vocal advocate for animal welfare, often expressing controversial views on issues such as halal slaughter and immigration. Her outspokenness sometimes drew criticism and legal action, particularly in France, where she was fined on multiple occasions for inciting racial hatred.

Bardot's legacy is complex. While celebrated for her beauty and her role in challenging societal norms, she also faced criticism for her later political views. Nevertheless, her impact on cinema, fashion, and popular culture remains undeniable. Her image continues to be referenced and reinterpreted, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.