“A Monstrosity”: Brigitte Bardot Calls for Immediate Ban on Hunting with Hounds in France

Sparked by a scandal

Bardot’s remarks come just weeks after a high-profile incident reignited public anger: a group of hunters reportedly trespassed on film director Luc Besson’s private estate to kill a deer that had taken refuge there. Bardot’s foundation, which has championed animal welfare since 1986, described the scene as a “butchery,” a “disgrace,” and an act of “disgusting sadism.”

“It’s outdated and disgusting”

Speaking passionately on air, Bardot said, “Hunting is completely obsolete, completely out of touch with our times. We’re still out there killing small birds, majestic stags, and beautiful deer—for fun. It’s disgusting.”

She added, “We’re living in a dangerous time, with people terrified about what the future holds. And yet, we continue killing animals who’ve done nothing to us, just for pleasure. It’s scandalous.”

Public opinion overwhelmingly in favor of a ban

According to a new Ifop poll commissioned by the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, 72% of French citizens support banning hunting with hounds. The survey also found broad support for limiting the rights of hunters, with 76% favoring a shorter hunting season.

Additionally, a petition launched in December by environmental activist Tom Arthus-Bertrand, son of famed photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand, has already gathered nearly 80,000 signatures. The petition calls for an end to hunting with hounds by 2030.

As Bardot insists, “It’s time for France to stop this cruelty.”