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Key Facts

  • Fabrice Gaignault is a writer and journalist.
  • He spent childhood summers at La Madrague.
  • He was the last person to interview Brigitte Bardot.
  • He describes Bardot as a 'solar' woman.

Quick Summary

Writer and journalist Fabrice Gaignault has released a detailed account of his long-standing connection to Brigitte Bardot. The retrospective covers a timeline spanning from his early childhood to their final meeting.

Gaignault's narrative is built on personal memories of time spent at La Madrague, Bardot's residence, where his family maintained a close friendship with the star. He characterizes the actress as a 'solar' figure whose energy was palpable. The account also highlights Gaignault's distinction as the journalist who conducted the final interview with Bardot, offering a unique perspective on her life away from the public eye.

Childhood Summers at La Madrague

The relationship between Fabrice Gaignault and Brigitte Bardot began during his youth. Gaignault notes that his parents were friends with the actress, which granted him access to her inner circle.

Specifically, he recalls spending summers at La Madrague, the iconic property Bardot purchased in 1959. This setting served as the backdrop for his formative interactions with the star. The environment provided a glimpse into the private life of a woman who was already a global phenomenon.

These early experiences allowed Gaignault to observe Bardot outside of her cinematic persona. He describes the atmosphere of these summers as distinct, shaped largely by Bardot's own personality and presence.

"La présence de Brigitte Bardot suffisait à anéantir toute trace de vie terrestre autour d’elle"

— Fabrice Gaignault

A 'Solar' Personality

In his retrospective, Gaignault characterizes Bardot as a 'solar' woman. This description suggests a personality that is warm, radiant, and perhaps overwhelming to those in her vicinity.

He elaborates on the intensity of her presence, stating that it was sufficient to dominate any environment. This observation is drawn from his personal interactions with her over the years.

The writer's portrait of Bardot focuses on her personal magnetism rather than her professional achievements. It highlights the impact she had on individuals close to her, distinct from her status as a cultural icon.

The Final Encounter

The timeline of Gaignault's relationship with Bardot extends to her later years. He notes that he was the last journalist to interview her.

This final meeting served as the conclusion to their long association. It provided Gaignault with a final opportunity to document the woman he had known since childhood.

The interview marks a significant moment in Bardot's history of public engagement. It serves as the basis for Gaignault's current reflections on her character and their shared history.

Conclusion

Fabrice Gaignault's account offers a unique view of Brigitte Bardot. By combining memories of childhood summers with the final interview, he creates a timeline of their relationship.

The narrative emphasizes Bardot's personal qualities, specifically her 'solar' nature. It underscores the lasting impact she had on those who knew her personally, from the beaches of La Madrague to her eventual retreat from public life.