Sophia Loren, 89, appeared to be in good spirits as she stepped out during a rare public appearance earlier this week.
The Oscar award-winning actress was seen dining with friends at the celebrity hotspot Cipriani in Beverly Hills.
In September 2023, the Italian-born actress fell inside her home in Switzerland. Loren sustained multiple “serious fractures” which required surgery and a “few months” of recovery.
Not only were her two sons Carlo Ponti Jr., 55, and Edoardo Ponti, 51, by her bedside, but well wishes from around the world came flooding in.
“I thank everyone for the closeness and affection that they have been showing me. I’m better, I just need to do rehabilitation and to take some time off,” a representative shared on her behalf.
In November, her management team released another statement informing fans her recovery was going “very well,” but beyond that Loren has remained quiet and out of the public eye.
On March 14, 2024, Loren managed to attend the Damiani Centenary gala dinner at Teatro Alcione in Milan.
But it wasn’t until now that we got to see the Hollywood actress out and about in public. And she looked as stunning as ever.
It’s so great to see Sophia Loren up and walking around, especially after such a horrible fall.
Denise Welch tells Loose Women guest ‘don’t disrespect me’ in explosive Meghan Markle row
A discussion about the Royal Family on Loose Women descended into chaos when Denise Welch told a guest not to ‘disrespect her’.
On Monday’s episode of the ITV programme, royal correspondent and the late Queen Elizabeth’s former press spokesperson Dickie Arbiter appeared to speak about the one-year anniversary of King Charles’ coronation.
However, things took a turn when he mentioned the strained relations between Prince Harry and his family.
Harry has been rubbishing his family since they walked out in 2020,’ he said.
Jumping in, Denise asked him if he believed if there was a reason Harry ‘did such a thing’ after his interview with Oprah Winfrey was mentioned, as well as his explosive autobiography Spare.
Commenting how she believed the King ‘ruined a lot of’ Princess Diana’s life, Denise then mentioned how Meghan Markle was ‘continually trashed by the media, including by yourself’.
Denise Welch has been involved in a fiery debate about the Royal Family on Loose Women (Picture: ITV)
As the studio audience began clapping, Denise raised her voice and declared: ‘I am just sick to death of the bashing that this woman gets.
‘Hardly any of you mention Andrew and yet we continually berate this woman every day. I think when her children grow up and see what she goes through, I think Harry had a bloody good reason to write that book in my opinion.’
Responding, Dickie said he ‘wasn’t going to argue’ with Denise as that wasn’t the aim of his appearance but added that he believed she had ‘been reading too many tabloid stories’.
She told royal correspondent Dickie Arbiter not to ‘disrespect’ her (Picture: ITV)
Hitting back, Denise was not impressed and told him not to ‘disrespect’ her.
‘I have read lots of stories about Meghan before and I think it is a disgrace the way she has been treated,’ she said.
After Dickie said the way Harry and Meghan had treated the Royal Family was ‘disgraceful’ and said the couple ‘didn’t have to walk out’, Coleen Nolan tried to diffuse the situation.
However, Denise was outraged: ‘Don’t have a guest on and… I can say what I like Coleen!’
She rushed to defend Meghan Markle and Prince Harry (Picture: Patrick van Katwijk/Getty Images)
Dickie then said that he would like to see a reunion between the King and his youngest son, with the conversation then calming down.
As the segment wrapped up, he and Denise then kissed each other on the cheek.
There was a mixed reaction to what unfolded from viewers, with some praising Denise and others saying she should have held her tongue.
‘Denise entitled to her opinion, but there’s a time and a place to let rip,’ Katie posted on X.
‘Denise Welch does not have the ability to listen or speak to people in a respectful way. Dickie Arbiter acted with class and everyone like he said is entitled to their own opinion. Just not in the appalling way she did,’ Chris shared.
‘If Dickie hadn’t rubbished Harry and Meghan, Denise wouldn’t have needed to step in and give the other side of the debate. Good on her,’ Tina added.
Many viewers weighed into what played out (Picture: X)
Some backed Denise and her comments (Picture: X)
This person wondered what pushback she might now face (Picture: X)
A long-time supporter of Harry and Meghan, this time last year Denise declared that she would prefer to ‘declare my allegiance’ to the young couple rather than the monarch.
During an episode of Loose Women in which the panel discussed the public being invited to ‘cry out and swear allegiance’ to King Charles and Queen Camilla, Denise said that while she ‘has nothing against the Royal Family’ she wanted to instead pledge allegiance to Harry and Meghan.
There’s no one equally terrifying and hilarious asKathy Bates, who clinched awards for her roles in comedies, dramas, and thrillers.
Her ongoing role as a two-times cancer survivor living with lymphedema – her toughest to date – may not deliver a Hollywood award but as an inspiration, she’s earned global recognition.
The 75-year-old actor, who after having her uterus, breasts, and lymph nodes removed was diagnosed with an incurable lymphatic disease, said she’s “blessed” to use her “celebrity to do something that can maybe help people.”Keep reading to learn about this incredible actor’s health journey!
Tennessee-born Kathy Bates is a stage and screen performer, best known for her award-winning appearances in Misery, Primary Colors, Clint Eastwood’s Richard Jewell and American Horror Story: Coven.
The actor, who’s earned several nominations since she started her career in the early 1970s, is recognized for her terrifying, dramatic, and comedic roles.
In 2003, only one year after shocking audiences when she appeared all nude in her starring role opposite Jack Nicholson in About Schmidt, Bates learned she had ovarian cancer.
Then, in 2012, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, that resulted in a double mastectomy.
Bates’ bad luck with her health wasn’t going to improve.
‘I went berserk’
“Then I got something called lymphedema,” she told Kelly Clarkson when she appeared on her show in 2019. “I don’t know if you’ve heard of it, but for cancer, they remove lymph nodes. I don’t care anywhere in your body. If your lymph system is damaged, oftentimes the fluid will back up in the affected limb.”
In treating cancers, lymph nodes are often removed because the invasive disease often travels through the lymphatic system. Once the nodes are gone, extra lymph fluid can build up in tissues and cause swelling, usually in the arm and hand.
Speaking with SurvivorNet, the Dolores Claiborne star shares the hardest part of her health journey wasn’t cancer, but the lymphedema, a side effect of her surgery.
“I went berserk,” she said. “I left the examining room and ran out of the building. I still had my drains in, I was holding a pillow to my t*ts, and I thought, ‘What am I doing? It’s July, I’m standing out here, it’s hot, I’m still healing, I don’t want to hurt anything.’”
The Fried Green Tomatoes star added: “I was bitter, I was depressed. I thought my career was over, I thought, ‘There’s no way, I’m done, everything is done.’”
Though the condition is incurable and progressive, The National Health Service (NHS) reports that lymphedema’s major symptoms are treatable by using measures that limit fluid accumulation.
‘Light inside’
But then she found a lymphedema expert who helped her cope.
Credit: Shutterstock
“I went to her, still angry, told her all of my tales. And she said, ‘Well, that’s all in the past, and now you’re going to begin the rest of your life.’” Speaking of her doctor, Bates continued: “Some people just have light inside.”
In addition to her treatments and compression sleeves to manage the pain and swelling in both of her arms, the Blind Side star also found healing in helping others.
Now an advocate for lymphedema, Bates – acting as the national spokesperson for Lymphatic Education and Research Network (LE&RN) – uses her profile to bring awareness to the condition. “It’s estimated that 10 million people in this country suffer with it,” she told Clarkson. “That’s more than ALS, muscular dystrophy, MS, Parkinson’s and AIDS combined.”
Bates also shared with Clarkson that it’s crucial for patients to push for a concrete diagnosis if they’re not feeling well. Mostly because lymphedema can go unnoticed by doctors. “Nobody knows about it and especially if we’re big girls and we go to a doctor and say, ‘I don’t feel right, my legs are swelling’ they say, ‘Oh, just go have a salad,’” she explained.
Fortunately, the star of Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret found a support system to help her manage and she hasn’t let her health slow her down.
Bates, who most recently appeared in 2023’s The Miracle Club, added: “I didn’t want to have cancer…and I really don’t want to have lymphedema…I feel blessed [to have the condition] because if I didn’t, I wouldn’t be in a position to use my celebrity to do something that can maybe help people.”
Kathy Bates is so inspiring and we can’t think of a better way to use fame for good!
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Jack Nicholson, a name that resonates with undeniable talent and a legacy etched in Hollywood’s golden archives, now lives a life shrouded in mystery and concern. This Hollywood titan, known for his magnetic screen presence and unforgettable roles, has recently chosen a seclusion path that intrigues and worries his legion of fans and close friends.
Recent whispers and reports paint a picture of Nicholson leading a reclusive existence in a sprawling $5 million mansion, a space he navigates alone. Amidst the grandeur of his 3,303-square-foot residence, concerns about his well-being and the profound silence of a once vibrant personality have sparked curiosity and unease.
As friends express fears about Nicholson’s isolation and the impact on his health, the spotlight once again finds its way to him, albeit under very different circumstances.
NICHOLSON’S RETREAT FROM PUBLIC LIFE
Jack Nicholson’s gradual retreat from the public eye has been marked by a dwindling number of public appearances and a notable decrease in social interactions outside his home. Once a fixture on the Hollywood scene, Nicholson’s presence now feels increasingly scarce, leaving fans and friends alike to wonder about the reasons behind his withdrawal.
Gone are the days when Nicholson’s charismatic smile lit up red carpets and his larger-than-life personality commanded attention. Instead, he now chooses to lead a quieter existence, shying away from the spotlight that once illuminated his every move. His public appearances have become rare, replaced by the solitude of his mansion and the company of his thoughts.
Nicholson’s social circle has also undergone a transformation, shrinking to include only his closest family members. While he was once known for his extensive network of friends and acquaintances, he now prefers the company of a select few. His interactions with the outside world have become sporadic, with family gatherings serving as the primary source of connection.
IMPACT ON CONNECTION AND MENTAL HEALTH
This withdrawal from public life has inevitably taken its toll on Nicholson’s connection with the outside world. The once vibrant exchanges that characterized his interactions have been replaced by an eerie silence, leaving friends and admirers longing for the days when Nicholson’s presence filled the room.
Concerns over Nicholson’s mental health have only deepened in the wake of his retreat. The isolation of his mansion, combined with the absence of regular social interactions, raises questions about the toll such solitude may be taking on his well-being. Friends, aware of the dangers of prolonged isolation, urge Nicholson to reengage with the world outside his doorstep, if only to reassure them of his continued vitality.
ROAMING ALONE IN LUXURY
Nicholson’s choice to live alone in such an expansive space does more than highlight his need for privacy; it underscores a profound shift in his approach to life. The walls of his $5 million mansion, located on the famed Mulholland Drive, have become the boundaries of his world. Friends and admirers, once accustomed to his dynamic presence, now grapple with the silence that his retreat has ushered in.
The significance of him wandering alone through the rooms of his vast estate cannot be overstated—it symbolizes not just a physical distancing from the bustling life of Hollywood but a deeper, more introspective withdrawal.
At 86, Nicholson navigates this mansion not as a space of confinement but as a realm of solitude. This decision to isolate himself sparks a complex blend of respect for his privacy and concern for his well-being among those who know him.
While a symbol of success, his mansion also serves as a poignant reminder of the isolation that often accompanies the later years of life, especially for those who have lived as vibrantly as Nicholson.
In embracing solitude, Nicholson challenges us to consider the delicate balance between the allure of a private life and the inherent human need for connection. As he roams his expansive home alone, the silence of its halls echoes the questions many of us face about aging, loneliness, and the choices we make in search of peace.
FRIENDS’ WORRIES FOR JACK NICHOLSON’S EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING
Jack Nicholson’s preference for solitude in his later years marked a significant change in his lifestyle and ignited concerns among those closest to him. Friends who have stood by Nicholson through decades of spotlight and shadow now find themselves grappling with the reality of his isolation. The fear that he might face his final days alone, without the comforting presence of loved ones or the vibrant social life he once led, weighs heavily on their hearts.
THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
This worry among his circle isn’t unfounded. It echoes the sadness many felt for Marlon Brando, another screen titan who also retreated into seclusion towards the end of his life. The parallels between Nicholson and Brando—two stars known for their immense talent and equally immense personal complexities—serve as a stark reminder of the potential solitude that can accompany aging, even for the most celebrated individuals.
Nicholson’s choice to distance himself and turn his home into a fortress of solitude does little to ease these concerns. While some understand and respect his need for privacy, others can’t help but feel that this withdrawal has deepened the gap between Nicholson and the world that adores him. His mansion, a place of refuge, also becomes a symbol of isolation, a physical manifestation of the barriers that now separate him from the rest of society.
THE ECHOES OF CONCERN
The worry isn’t just about physical health; it’s about the mental and emotional well-being of a man who once thrived in the company of others. Friends fear the impact of such isolation on Nicholson’s spirits, wondering how the silence of his vast home affects him. They recall days when laughter, debate, and the warmth of companionship filled the air, contrasting sharply with the quiet that now pervades.
This concern has led to whispered conversations, pleas for Nicholson to step outside his sanctuary, even if just for a moment, to reassure those who care about him that he is indeed okay. Yet, these pleas often go unanswered, adding to the growing unease among those who wish nothing but peace and happiness for the legendary actor.
LIVING WITH DEMENTIA: LEGENDARY ACTOR’S QUIET BATTLE
Jack Nicholson’s journey has taken an unexpected turn with reports surfacing about his struggle with dementia. Once hailed as a Hollywood icon, Nicholson now faces a quiet battle with this debilitating condition, forcing him to step away from the craft that defined his life for decades.
The revelation of Nicholson’s dementia marks a significant turning point in his life and career. While he had not officially announced his retirement from acting, the realities of his condition have necessitated a step back from the limelight. The once dynamic and expressive actor, known for his memorable roles and captivating performances, must now confront the limitations imposed by memory loss and cognitive decline.
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Living with dementia has undoubtedly reshaped Nicholson’s day-to-day existence. Simple tasks that were once second nature now require careful consideration and assistance.
Navigating the complexities of daily life in the face of memory loss adds a layer of difficulty to even the most mundane activities. For Nicholson, this may mean relying more heavily on the support of loved ones and caregivers to navigate the intricacies of daily living.
THE IMPACT OF NICHOLSON’S DEMENTIA WITH HIS INTERACTIONS
The implications of Nicholson’s condition extend beyond his personal life to his interactions with those around him. The once sharp wit and engaging presence that endeared him to audiences worldwide may now be tempered by the fog of forgetfulness. Conversations that were once lively and spirited may now be punctuated by moments of confusion and disorientation.
For Nicholson’s family and close friends, the impact of his dementia on their interactions with him is profound. They must navigate the delicate balance between preserving his dignity and providing the support and assistance he needs. Each interaction becomes an opportunity to cherish the moments of connection and shared memories, even as they grapple with the realities of his condition.
TIPS FOR SUPPORTING LOVED ONES WITH DEMENTIA
Supporting a loved one living with dementia requires patience, compassion, and a willingness to adapt to their changing needs. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate this challenging journey with grace and understanding:
Foster understanding and empathy: Approach interactions with empathy and understanding. Remember that dementia can affect a person’s cognitive abilities and behavior, but it doesn’t diminish their humanity or worth.
Maintain routine and structure: Establishing a predictable routine can provide comfort and stability for someone with dementia. Stick to regular meal times, bedtime routines, and activities to help them feel more secure.
Communicate clearly and simply: Use clear and simple language when communicating with your loved one. Avoid using complex sentences or asking multiple questions simultaneously, which can lead to confusion.
Be patient and flexible: Patience is key when caring for someone with dementia. Be prepared to repeat yourself and allow extra time to complete tasks. Flexibility is also important, as their needs and abilities may change daily.
Encourage independence: Whenever possible, encourage your loved one to remain independent and participate in activities they enjoy. Offer assistance when needed, but allow them to do as much as they can on their own.
Ensure safety: Take steps to ensure the safety of your loved one, such as removing tripping hazards from their living space, installing handrails, and securing doors and windows.
Seek support for yourself: Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically draining. Don’t hesitate to seek support from family, friends, or support groups to help you cope with the challenges.
By following these tips and approaches, you can provide the love, support, and assistance your loved one needs as they navigate life with dementia. Your compassion and dedication will make a meaningful difference in their journey.
THE LEGACY OF JACK NICHOLSON
Jack Nicholson’s impact on Hollywood is undeniable, and his legacy is etched into the fabric of cinema history. As one of the greatest actors of all time, Nicholson’s talent, charisma, and versatility have left an indelible mark on both the silver screen and the hearts of audiences worldwide.
A HOLLYWOOD ICON
Throughout his illustrious career, Nicholson graced the screen with unforgettable performances that spanned genres and generations. From his iconic portrayal of the anarchic Randle McMurphy in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” to his chilling rendition of Jack Torrance in “The Shining,” Nicholson’s ability to inhabit complex characters with depth and nuance earned him critical acclaim and adoration from fans.
Nicholson’s life story is one of highs and lows, of triumphs and challenges. From his early days as a struggling actor to his meteoric rise to fame in the 1970s, Nicholson’s journey has been as captivating as the characters he brought to life on screen.
Yet, as he enters his twilight years, Nicholson’s retreat from the public eye has added a new chapter to his story—one of introspection, solitude, and quiet contemplation.
Despite his withdrawal from public life, Nicholson’s legacy continues to fascinate and inspire. His body of work serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of art. Even in his quietest moments, Nicholson remains a symbol of creativity, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.
INSPIRING GENERATIONS
Nicholson’s influence extends far beyond the realm of cinema, shaping the aspirations and dreams of aspiring actors and filmmakers around the world. His commitment to his craft, his fearlessness in tackling challenging roles, and his unwavering dedication to authenticity serve as a guiding light for those who follow in his footsteps.
Above all, Nicholson’s legacy reminds us of the complexity of the human experience. From the heights of fame to the solitude of his mansion, Nicholson’s life embodies the richness and depth of the human spirit.
His story serves as a reminder that even in our quietest moments, we are capable of greatness, of resilience, and of leaving an indelible mark on the world around us.
As we reflect on the legacy of Jack Nicholson, we are reminded of the power of storytelling to transcend time and space, to inspire, to challenge, and to ignite the imagination.
Nicholson’s life may have taken him from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the quiet solitude of his mansion, but his impact on the world of cinema—and on the hearts of those who have been touched by his work—will endure for generations to come.
A HOLLYWOOD LEGEND’S JOURNEY THROUGH FAME, STRUGGLE, AND SOLITUDE
Jack Nicholson’s life has been a testament to the power of talent, resilience, and human complexity. From his early days as a struggling actor to his rise to Hollywood stardom, Nicholson captivated audiences with his unforgettable performances and larger-than-life persona. However, as he enters his twilight years, concerns about his well-being have cast a shadow over his legacy.
Nicholson’s retreat from public life and his reported struggle with dementia serve as poignant reminders of the fragility of the human condition. Despite his status as a Hollywood legend, Nicholson grapples with the same challenges and vulnerabilities as any other individual.
His journey—from the heights of fame to the quiet solitude of his mansion—illustrates the importance of compassion, empathy, and support in facing life’s inevitable trials.
Let us extend our thoughts and prayers to Jack Nicholson and others living with dementia, as well as their families and caregivers. May they find strength, comfort, and solace in the love and support of those around them.
Let us strive to create a world where compassion reigns supreme and no one faces the challenges of aging and illness alone.
Blake Lively’s husband, Ryan Reynolds, fell prey to a hilariously orchestrated Christmas prank by his friends Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal
Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively’s husband, was the subject of a funny Christmas prank perpetrated by his friends Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal.
Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively are known for their love of pranks, but on this occasion, they were the ones who surprised their friends.
With the arrival of April Fool’s Day, those most fond of pranks within the family or group of friends prepare to reveal the ingenious pranks they have planned throughout the year. The little jokes we receive are just a preview of what awaits us on the appointed day. However, there are times when any day is a good day to show off our skills to make others laugh, whether it’s sharing trending videos with friends or telling jokes.
In the celebrity realm, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are known as the kings of pranks. The couple shares their daily lives in a fun way, making us participate in their sense of humor.
The unexpected arrived in 2023 when an image of Hugh Jackman, the protagonist of “Wolverine,” and Jake Gyllenhaal went viral on social networks. In the photo, they are seen laughing with Ryan Reynolds. The mystery arose: why? The answer goes back to a prank they played on Reynolds a few years ago, and here we tell you.
The two actors persuaded Reynolds to attend a party wearing an ugly sweater, a tradition many of us joined. What Reynolds didn’t know was that he would be the only one to follow the tradition, becoming the butt of a joke he didn’t think was possible. The surprise was evident, showing that on this occasion, the student surpassed the teacher.
Scarlett Johansson, known for her roles in “Her” and “Black Widow,” has taken a firm stance against social media, revealing her reasons during a recent podcast appearance.
In an episode of “The Skinny Confidential Him & Her” podcast, Johansson expressed her reluctance to engage with social media platforms, citing concerns about her own vulnerability.
She admitted, “I can’t. My ego is too fragile. I can’t deal with it. My brain is too fragile. I’m like a delicate flower.”
Johansson disclosed that she had briefly attempted to use Instagram but quickly abandoned the platform after just three days.
Reflecting on her brief experience, she recounted spending 20 minutes browsing through the profile of someone associated with a friend, only to feel like she had wasted valuable time. “Like, now I know you have a pit bull and two daughters and you live in Burbank.
I was like, what? I just wasted 17 minutes of time. I now feel like I should move to California, get this specific dog, and change my life in all these ways,” she explained.
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The actress confessed to feeling a sense of guilt for not being more involved in the lives of others through social media. She described the experience as making her feel “so bad, like I was missing out on this random person’s life.”
Scarlett Johansson’s candid remarks shed light on the pressures and anxieties associated with social media use, highlighting her decision to prioritize her mental well-being over digital engagement.
Hollywood actors may seem out of touch with the real world, but believe it or not there are times they’re just like us.
Julia Roberts recently sat down with Vogue to talk about the beginning of her career and the one regret she’s carried with her all this time.
“I couldn’t. It wasn’t in my cards,” Roberts, 56, said when asked about going to college.
“My family didn’t have the money. And I had no scholarship potential. That kind of thing,” she added.
Since having children and watching them go through the college process she’s experienced a “longing for that academic space.”
“I want to learn about anthropology! Where’s that academic space for someone like me? It doesn’t really exist, but…”
Roberts’ eldest sons, twins Hazel and Phinnaeus, left for college in Fall 2022. At the time she told Extra that it was “really thrilling” to see them head off to school, something she never got to experience.
“I wasn’t lucky enough to have a college experience. And so to see how it’s happening for them is really fascinating,” she said. “I’m just, I’m excited for them.”
Sophia Loren, the star who hardly walks, has aged significantly and no longer resembles the person she once was!
Sophia Loren’s life has become extraordinarily peaceful and collected as a result of the film “Diva.”
Sophia Loren has been a constant in the public eye and has captured the hearts of practically everyone with her timeless beauty. The world-famous actress, who is well-known for her exquisite looks, was unable to miss the restaurant’s grand opening for her successor.
The stunning actress, exuding sophistication and timeless beauty, honored the occasion at the restaurant’s inauguration. She wore an exceedingly attractive white suit. Years have passed, but Sophia Loren’s timeless charm never goes away.
Given her advanced age, some fans advise her to take a vacation and limit her dealings with the media, but the renowned actress seems unfazed, retaining her grace and charisma.
Commentators and fans have expressed conflicting views; some have acknowledged the unavoidable effects of aging, while others have emphasized Sophia Loren’s eternal status as a legendary and stunning woman.It begs the question:
Brigitte Bardot could not be more fashionable this year. Actually, make that every year: her original and authentic presence and style has stood the test of time.
The sex symbol and superstar who exploded from the rocketship of French New Wave cinema is uncannily inhabited by actress Julia de Nunez in the new six-part fictionalized series “Bardot,” streaming on CBC Gem as of Friday.
The series begins just after Bardot has met Roger Vadim, who became her first husband (of four) and wrote “And God Created Woman” for her, which propelled her to worldwide acclaim — and scandalized many — in 1956.
Brigitte Bardot could not be more fashionable this year. Actually, make that every year: her original and authentic presence and style has stood the test of time.
The sex symbol and superstar who exploded from the rocketship of French New Wave cinema is uncannily inhabited by actress Julia de Nunez in the new six-part fictionalized series “Bardot,” streaming on CBC Gem as of Friday.
The series begins just after Bardot has met Roger Vadim, who became her first husband (of four) and wrote “And God Created Woman” for her, which propelled her to worldwide acclaim — and scandalized many — in 1956.
A tightly crafted period piece, the early episodes detail the couple’s intense and illicit romance; Bardot was just 15 to Vadim’s 21. In contrast to the biopics of the moment that focus on character psychoanalysis and symbolism, this series is Euro-flavoured: subtle, textured, leaving motivations and morals in ambiguity, just like the New Wave era it documents.
Actress Julia de Nunez in “Bardot,” now streaming on CBC Gem. Photo: CBC
De Nunez’s spot-on Bardot morphs from dutiful schoolgirl and aspiring ballerina to young woman in full possession and control of her sexuality. She is the pursuer in the underage relationship, standing up to her strict parents, putting her head in the oven in a dramatic (and successful) attempt to force them to allow her to see her older lover.
As writer/directors Danièle and Christopher Thompson point out in their directors’ note, the world wasn’t (and possibly still isn’t) quite ready for a woman with such a fiercely independent sense of self. She helped usher in the sexual revolution, but at a cost. “An unwitting advocate for freedom for the women of her generation, Brigitte pays dearly for her own,” they write. “She is idolized, hated, adored, despised, both the catalyst and the victim of this unprecedented outburst. The chase is on. From now on, there will be no end to the violation of her private life.”
Danièle told the Guardian earlier this year that when she wrote to Bardot to let her know about the project, Bardot replied saying if it was to be made, she preferred that Thompson be the one to do it, but “she was always surprised how unbelievably interested people were in her and did not quite understand why she was not left alone for good.”
After some 50 films, Bardot retired from acting in 1973 to become a singularly focused animal rights activist, another instance in which she was ahead of her time. But it led her to make Islamophobic comments regarding what she sees as cruel practices surrounding halal meat, and she has been charged in court with inciting racial hatred for it, multiple times.
Even so, her influence on fashion and the wider culture has been powerful. In 1969, she became the first real-life image of Marianne, the very symbol of the French Republic, carved into a bust.
Bardot had a preternatural sense of how to present herself, which is expressed in the series as rebellion against the way she was styled in her early films and modelling work. “I’d like to do my own hair and makeup my way,” she says. “I always feel disguised.” Once she bleached her hair blond, she created the “bedhead” look, a nod to the tousled, carelessly alluring style that became synonymous with French women‘s style.
Bardot has said this was not premeditated; she threw on what she felt in the moment. “The Bardot style is simply my own style; in other words it’s not a style at all,” she wrote in the introduction to the book “Brigitte Bardot: My Life in Fashion,” by Henry-Jean Servat. “I wore elegant gowns designed by the top couturiers, as well as gorgeous gypsy outfits that were unconventional, things I came across by accident and then became fashionable. It makes me laugh!” She added that she felt proud of creating a look that will never go out style—“because I was never fashionable!”
Much self-possession is necessary to have this opinion while creating the mythology of an icon. The signatures Bardot adopted and popularized are still in style today: The black headband, a dancer’s accessory that swept the ’60s; the messily applied “slept in” smoky eye; the “nude” lip, wherein she eschewed lipstick and blush to keep the focus on her giant blue eyes.
Julia de Nunez as Brigitte Bardot in “Bardot,” streaming on CBC Gem. Photo: CBC
As for clothing, her greatest contribution might be the ballet flat, which is enjoying a massive comeback at this very moment. Bardot famously talked French dance brand Repetto into making ballet shoes that could be worn outside; the Cendrillon model created for her remains available today. When she wore a fresh and simple pink gingham wedding dress to marry her second husband, Jacques Charrier, in 1959, she set in motion a craze that even ended up on Barbie dolls.
But her biggest contribution was fearlessly breaking with norms. Having made the louche, laissez-faire lifestyle of St. Tropez famous, she often walked around barefoot, even at the Élysée Palace. Jean-Claude Jitrois, who dressed Bardot in the ’80s, described her instinctive style as “chic-destroy.” He was quoted in WWD declaring that what young people are drawn to is the way she said “merde to the bourgeoisie.”
In many ways, Brigitte Bardot symbolized the woman so many of us long to be: free and daring, confidently breaking rules, secure in her own skin. This, of course, is an illusion. But it’s ever such an alluring one.
Kevin Costner with his now ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner, in March 2022.
Kevin Costner admits that his tumultuous divorce from ex-wife Christine Baumgartner was extremely difficult for him.
The ‘Draft Day’ star was quick to admit that the divorce from his wife of 18 years hurt him, describing it in no uncertain terms.
Kevin Costner didn’t know what to do with his life.
“That’s a crushing moment,” Costner admitted on CBS Mornings. “It’s powerful and it hurt.”
However, Costner emphasized that he has “no choice” but to move forward because his children are “looking” at him.
“So, I can’t wilt like a daisy,” he added.
“I have to go forward, I have to continue to be who I am and keep a special eye on who they are.”
How will Costner move forward?
Costner and Baumgartner, 50, share three children – Cayden Wyatt, 17, Hayes Logan, 15, and Grace Avery, 14. They battled in court for months over child support payments. Baumgartner argued that their teens were accustomed to a lavish lifestyle, including private planes and luxurious vacations, thus Costner should pay more.
Ultimately, a judge decided that Costner would pay $63,209 a month in child support, less than half of what Baumgartner had requested.
The exes also contested spousal support and their prenuptial agreement, finally settling the divorce in September 2023, with the official finalization occurring in February. Details of the settlement were not disclosed, but Baumgartner had to pay Costner over $1 million in attorney’s fees for challenging the prenup.
Costner has been candid about the toll the ordeal took on him. In May, he told GQ that he felt “broken” but committed to pushing through while working on new projects.
“No matter how much my heart’s on the ground, no matter how broken I may be on a daily basis … I do have a level of responsibility to those involved in these projects,” he said.
