Residents of Saint-Tropez, France, gathered outside the home of Brigitte Bardot on Monday to memorialize the actress, one day after her death at the age of 91. The actress-turned-far-right agitator, known for her iconic roles in films like "And God Created Woman," will be buried in a seaside cemetery near the southern town, according to local officials.

Bardot's passing marks the end of an era for French cinema, though her later-life political stances have often overshadowed her earlier achievements. "She was a complicated figure, to say the least," commented film critic Jean-Pierre Dubois. "Her impact on fashion and film is undeniable, but her controversial views made her a divisive personality."

Bardot rose to international fame in the 1950s and 60s, becoming a symbol of French sensuality and rebellion. Her influence extended beyond the silver screen, impacting fashion trends and challenging societal norms. She later became an outspoken animal rights activist, but also drew criticism for her anti-immigration and anti-Islam rhetoric, resulting in multiple convictions for inciting racial hatred.

The memorial in Saint-Tropez drew a mixed crowd, with some attendees expressing admiration for her cinematic contributions and others voicing disapproval of her political views. "She was a legend, regardless of her opinions," said one local resident, Marie Dubois. "Her films will live on."

The burial is expected to take place later this week, with a private ceremony for family and close friends. The seaside cemetery is a fitting final resting place for the actress, who spent much of her life in the coastal town. While Bardot's legacy remains complex and controversial, her impact on French culture is undeniable, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be debated and analyzed.