French Icon Actress Jane Birkin Dies Aged 76

Renowned singer, actress, and fashion icon, Jane Birkin, has passed away at the age of 76.

The English-French star’s career was marked by her significant artistic collaboration and personal relationship with songwriter Serge Gainsbourg, most notably recording the iconic track “Je T’aime…moi non plus” with him.

Born in London, Birkin achieved fame in France during the 1970s, where she relocated to pursue her career.

Her connection with Gainsbourg skyrocketed her international fame after their hit song “Je t’aime… moi non plus,” which Gainsbourg initially wrote for his former partner, Brigitte Bardot.

The controversial and overtly sexual nature of the song led to its banning on radio in various countries and condemnation from the Vatican. However, it also introduced Birkin and Gainsbourg to a broader audience worldwide.

French President Emmanuel Macron hailed Birkin as a “French icon” and a “complete artist” who leaves behind unforgettable melodies and images. Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne stated that she “transcended generations.”

Although Birkin and Gainsbourg’s relationship lasted for 12 years, they remained friends even after their separation.

Gainsbourg, who was 18 years older than Birkin, continued to write songs for her years later. The couple had a daughter, the acclaimed actress and singer, Charlotte Gainsbourg.

Their relationship was often described as “tumultuous,” and Birkin documented episodes of violence and Gainsbourg’s struggles with alcoholism in her 2020 diaries.

Despite their challenges, Birkin consistently defended Gainsbourg and continued to promote his work long after his death in 1991.

Following their split in 1981, Birkin focused on her acting and singing career, releasing albums such as “Baby Alone in Babylone” (1983) and “Amour des Feintes” (1990).

She also gained fame as a fashion trendsetter, inspiring the creation of the Birkin handbag by luxury French brand Hermès in 1984.

During a fortuitous encounter on an Air France flight, Birkin happened to sit next to Jean-Louis Dumas, Hermès’ then-CEO.

When she expressed her desire for larger bags, Dumas sketched a design that eventually became the iconic Birkin bag, known for its exclusivity and high price tags.

Aside from her artistic contributions, Birkin was an advocate for various causes throughout her life, including animal welfare. In 2015, she urged Hermès to remove her name from the handbag line due to these concerns.

Before her fame in France, Birkin was married to British composer John Barry until the late 1960s. Tragically, their daughter, Kate Barry, a successful fashion photographer, passed away in 2013.

Birkin’s extensive acting career included roles in films such as the classic “Blow-Up” (1966), “Death on the Nile” (1978), and “Evil Under the Sun” (1982).

She also delved into music, releasing her self-penned album “Arabesque” in 2002 and a collection of live recordings titled “Jane at the Palace” in 2009.

In 1990, Birkin was diagnosed with leukemia, and later, in September 2021, it was reported that she had suffered a stroke, leading to the cancellation of a planned appearance at an American film festival.

Jane Birkin’s legacy will forever be remembered as a remarkable talent, a style icon, and a prominent figure in both French and British cultural history.