The Brigitte Bardot Foundation, which has been working since 1986 to rescue animals, has not collapsed after the star’s death. At 70 years old, Guyslaine Calmels-Bock actually claims to have received more donations and bequests than ever before. “It started like a bomb. It calms down a bit, but this month we are still 40% higher than last year. All these bequests can also be very modest but commit you for life. In the 1990s, an old lady sent a letter with a five franc coin attached. That is not forgotten. The respect for all donors is sacred,” she proudly stated to Le Parisien.
Regarding animal rescues, the teams recently saved nearly 130 chihuahuas from an illegal breeding operation.
The Foundation not only saves animals from abuse but also takes in animals whose owners are unfortunately ill or deceased. This is the case for Brigitte Bardot’s four dogs: Bagheera, Charles, Patou, and Orca, who recently joined the Bazoches-sur-Guyonne refuge in Yvelines. Calmels-Bock also reveals that the refuge had taken in animals from another star’s estate a few years ago, including all the animals from Bernard Tapie when his property in Seine-et-Marne was seized.
As for leadership, Bernard d’Ormale, Brigitte Bardot’s husband, has been elected by the Board of Directors to continue her work for animal rights.
In terms of inheritance, Nicolas Jacques Charrier, Brigitte Bardot’s son, is set to inherit 50% of the BB estate’s value, including La Madrague which was previously bequeathed to the Foundation years ago. Calmels-Bock is not worried about the succession process, emphasizing a smooth and cooperative approach with Bardot’s son.
