The Brigitte Bardot Foundation, the animal welfare charity established by the late French actress, issued a warning regarding fraudulent merchandise being advertised online. The foundation stated that these items falsely claim to benefit the organization's work.

The foundation became aware of what it described as "crude fabrications" being marketed with the assertion that proceeds would be donated to the animal welfare cause. In response, the Brigitte Bardot Foundation threatened legal action against those involved in "these alleged illegal fundraising efforts," urging respect for the memory of the deceased actress.

Brigitte Bardot, who died last Sunday at the age of 91, gained international recognition for her nearly 50 films and her role in shaping French cinema during the 1950s. She became a symbol of sexual liberation before retiring from acting to dedicate her life to animal rights activism. Her transition from screen icon to animal rights advocate cemented her place as a cultural figure in France and beyond.

While celebrated for her contributions to film and animal welfare, Bardot also faced controversy later in life. She was fined on multiple occasions for inciting racial hatred, stemming from remarks about Muslims, gay people, and the MeToo movement. These controversies sparked debate both in France and internationally, highlighting the complexities of her legacy.

Following her death, tributes poured in from across France. President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged Bardot as "a legend of the century," recognizing her significant impact on French culture. "Her films, her voice, her dazzling glory, her initials, her sorrows, her genius, she left her mark on France and the whole world," Macron said. The Brigitte Bardot Foundation is currently exploring legal avenues to address the sale of scam memorabilia and protect its fundraising efforts.