Pop Star Walks Back Tribute After Backlash
Pop star Chappell Roan publicly retracted a tribute she posted for French film icon Brigitte Bardot after realizing the late actress had expressed widely criticized views — including statements many consider racist and anti-LGBTQ+. The incident quickly ignited discussion across social media and entertainment news, with Roan clarifying she does not condone Bardot’s controversial beliefs and expressing disappointment upon learning more about her legacy.
What Happened: Tribute, Backlash, and Retraction
When news broke of Bardot’s death at age 91, Roan took to her Instagram Story to post a brief tribute. She wrote, “Rest in peace Ms. Bardot. She was my inspiration for ‘Red Wine Supernova,’” referencing a lyric from her 2023 hit that name-drops the French star.
However, after fans highlighted Bardot’s controversial political history, including far-right viewpoints and multiple convictions for inciting racial hatred in France, Roan deleted the original post and shared a new message of clarification. In that follow-up, she wrote (expletive omitted): “Holy s— I did not know all that insane s— Ms. Bardot stood for. Obvs I do not condone this. Very disappointing to learn.”
The Legacy of Brigitte Bardot: Icon and Controversy
Brigitte Bardot rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s as a groundbreaking film star and sex symbol, celebrated worldwide for her roles in movies like And God Created Woman and Contempt.
Later in life, Bardot became known for her animal rights activism and founded a foundation dedicated to that cause. However, she also espoused far-right political views, made remarks that many interpreted as racist, Islamophobic, and homophobic, and was convicted several times in French courts for inciting racial hatred.
This complicated legacy helped explain why Roan’s initial tribute sparked immediate fan reactions and subsequent reevaluation.
Public Reaction: Fans and Critics Respond
Reactions were swift and mixed. Many fans pointed out Bardot’s controversial political positions, prompting Roan’s retraction. Some commentators on social media praised Roan for taking responsibility and correcting her tribute after learning more. Others criticized her for not being aware of Bardot’s full history before posting.
Online conversations show a range of perspectives — from empathy for Roan’s quick honest update to frustration over the initial tribute itself. Some fans highlighted the importance of public figures educating themselves before referencing influential cultural icons. Others defended Roan’s willingness to apologize and correct her message once informed.
Chappell Roan’s Ongoing Public Image
Roan, 27, is a Grammy-winning pop artist known for hits like “Red Wine Supernova” and her outspoken support for LGBTQ+ rights and progressive causes. The Bardot episode underscores how modern celebrities navigate the complex intersection of cultural history, social awareness, and public identity.
In her apology, Roan reiterated that she does not endorse views that conflict with her own values — a clear attempt to reassure fans of her personal beliefs and artistic integrity.
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| Left: Chappell Roan attends the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony at Peacock Theater on Nov. 8, 2025, in Los Angeles, Calif. Right: A studio portrait of actor and model Brigitte Bardot wearing a light blue off-the-shoulder dress at an undisclosed location in the 1960s. (Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic (left); Hulton Archive/Getty Images (right)) |
Why This Matters: Celebrity, History, and Accountability
This incident highlights a broader cultural dynamic: the challenge of remembering beloved public figures whose legacies are mixed. Bardot’s contributions to film are undeniable, but her political statements later in life have significantly altered how many view her legacy.
For contemporary artists like Roan — especially those whose audiences include younger and socially conscious fans — awareness of historical context is increasingly important. Missteps can rapidly lead to backlash, but how artists respond can also shape public perception. Roan’s quick retraction and candid apology reflect one way celebrities are navigating that landscape responsibly.
A Swift Response to a Cultural Misstep
Chappell Roan’s retraction of her tribute to Brigitte Bardot after learning about the late actress’s controversial views became a trending topic in celebrity news. By openly acknowledging her lack of awareness and clarifying her stance, Roan showed a willingness to learn and uphold her values — a move that many fans and commentators saw as thoughtful and accountable. Yahoo News
The episode also rekindled discussion about how society remembers influential figures whose legacies include both artistic achievement and problematic statements, reminding fans and public figures alike of the importance of considering the whole story behind admired icons.
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