Franco-British legend, Jane Birkin, celebrated for her contributions to music, fashion, and cinema, has passed away at 76. An enduring symbol of French culture despite her British origins, Birkin’s diverse and influential career spanned across several decades.
One of her most notable collaborations was with the renowned French songwriter Serge Gainsbourg, with whom she crafted the iconic French song “Je T’aime… moi non plus.” This provocative duet stirred international controversy upon its release in 1968, even facing a ban in several countries due to its sensual lyrics. Yet, the controversy only served to catapult the pair to worldwide recognition.
Beyond music, Birkin’s impact in the world of fashion is undeniable. The globally recognized Hermès Birkin bag bears her name, having been inspired by a chance encounter between Birkin and Jean-Louis Dumas, the former CEO of Hermès, on an Air France flight in the 1980s.
Despite her English birth, Birkin found her true calling in French, both in music and cinema. Her move to France in the 1970s marked the beginning of her ascension to international fame. Her artistic partnership with Gainsbourg resulted in a tumultuous yet intensely creative 12-year relationship that continued to influence her work even after their split.
Even in the face of personal challenges such as Gainsbourg’s alcoholism and allegations of harassment against him, Birkin remained a strong advocate of his work, promoting his legacy long after his death in 1991.
Following her split from Gainsbourg, Birkin continued to build an impressive solo career in music and acting. Some of her notable works include the albums “Baby Alone in Babylone” (1983) and “Amour des Feintes” (1990).
As a fashion icon, she inspired the world with her effortless style, most notably leading to the creation of the Hermès Birkin bag. This bag, born from a conversation about the need for large, practical bags for mothers, became one of the most exclusive and coveted luxury items globally.
Birkin used her fame to advocate for numerous causes, even asking Hermès to remove her name from their iconic bag in 2015 over concerns related to animal welfare.
In addition to her iconic relationship with Gainsbourg, Birkin was previously married to British composer John Barry. She had a daughter, Kate Barry, a Vogue photographer who sadly passed away in 2013. Her third daughter, Lou Doillon, a musician, model, and actress, is from her relationship with French director Jacques Doillon.
The Franco-British star’s illustrious acting career includes roles in classics like “Blow Up” (1966), “Death on the Nile” (1978), and “Evil Under the Sun” (1982).
Jane Birkin will always be remembered as a pivotal figure in the Franco-British cultural scene. Tributes have been pouring in from around the world, including from French President Emmanuel Macron and British Ambassador to France, Menna Rawlings, both of whom have expressed their deep admiration for Birkin. Despite health struggles later in life, including leukemia and a reported stroke, Jane Birkin’s enduring legacy will remain in the world of music, film, and fashion.
