Brigitte Bardot credits a 'miracle' for preventing her from multiple suicide attempts in new documentary

Brigitte Bardot credits what she calls a "miracle" for keeping her alive today. In the recently released documentary Bardot, the 91-year-old French actress opens up about her struggles with depression and the intense pressures of fame.

Looking back on her illustrious career, Bardot admitted that she attempted to end her life multiple times during her peak years in the spotlight. "I was taking my own life," she revealed in the film. "And I was saved by a miracle." She did not clarify what she meant by the miracle but confirmed that her fight with depression continues to this day. "Every morning I wake up, and I am sad," she said.

Bardot has previously discussed her suicide attempts and other harmful behaviors in her 1998 autobiography, where she also spoke about struggling with alcohol abuse. At the time, she acknowledged that living through such extraordinary moments comes with consequences. Before retiring from acting in 1973, she recalled consuming two bottles of champagne and three bottles of wine daily. She explained, "You cannot escape the distress which follows great happiness," reflecting on her past struggles with self-destructive behavior.

Rising to fame as a 1950s and 1960s sex symbol, Bardot earned acclaim for roles in Roger Vadims And God Created Woman and Jean-Luc Godards Le Mpris. She soon became an international fashion icon. After leaving the film industry, she became a passionate animal rights advocate and has not shied away from voicing strong, sometimes controversial opinions.

The documentary follows reports earlier this year that Bardot underwent surgery for a serious illness, which required three weeks of hospitalization. Rumors of her passing were quickly debunked when she confirmed on social media that she was well and had no intentions of stepping away from life.

Brigitte Bardots story is a poignant reminder of the challenges behind fame and the resilience required to confront lifelong mental health struggles.

Analysis: Brigitte Bardot’s Lifelong Struggle with Mental Health

Brigitte Bardot’s recent revelations in the documentary highlight the ongoing impact of depression even decades after leaving the spotlight. At 91, she credits a “miracle” with saving her life during her darkest moments, though the specifics remain private. Her candid discussion underlines the severity of mental health challenges that often accompany intense fame.

Reflecting on her past, Bardot confirmed that her struggles with self-destructive behavior and substance abuse were closely tied to the pressures of celebrity life. Her routine of excessive alcohol consumption and multiple suicide attempts illustrates the hidden toll behind her public image as a celebrated actress and fashion icon.

Today, Bardot continues to navigate sadness daily while maintaining an active public life, including advocacy for animal rights. Her story serves as a sobering reminder of the resilience required to survive mental health crises and the long-term consequences of living under extraordinary public scrutiny.

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• Brigitte Bardot says a 'miracle' saved her from multiple suicide attempts in new documentary

Author: Ethan Caldwell
Ethan Caldwell is an experienced reporter with 10 years covering international news. He specializes in politics and economics, with strong investigative journalism and analytical writing skills.