Brigitte Bardot, the French actress who became an international symbol of sex appeal in the mid-20th century, died Sunday at the age of 91, her animal rights foundation announced. The statement, released to Agence France-Presse, did not specify the time or location of her death.

Bardot rose to prominence in the 1950s and 60s, a period of significant social and cultural change across the globe. Her films, including "And God Created Woman" (1956), challenged conventional notions of female sexuality and contributed to a more permissive attitude towards sex in Western societies. Her influence extended beyond cinema; she became a fashion icon, popularizing trends such as the bikini and the "Bardot neckline," an off-the-shoulder style.

Beyond her acting career, Bardot was also a singer, recording several albums and collaborating with prominent musicians like Serge Gainsbourg, with whom she recorded the hit song "Bonnie and Clyde." Her personal life, marked by four marriages and numerous high-profile relationships, including those with Warren Beatty and Nino Ferrer, was often the subject of intense media scrutiny.

In later life, Bardot became a vocal advocate for animal rights, establishing the Brigitte Bardot Foundation in 1986. She frequently used her platform to condemn animal cruelty and lobby for stricter animal welfare laws. Her activism often sparked controversy, particularly in France, where hunting and farming are deeply ingrained in the culture.

Bardot's death marks the end of an era, a time when European cinema gained international recognition and challenged Hollywood's dominance. Her impact on fashion, film, and social attitudes continues to be felt, particularly in discussions about female empowerment and the objectification of women. The Brigitte Bardot Foundation is expected to continue her work in animal welfare. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.