The tribute to Brigitte Bardot during the César awards, France's equivalent to the Oscars, was marred by visible discontent among the audience, as boos accompanied the applause. Video footage surfaced showing attendees expressing their disapproval, with some calling out accusations of racism towards Bardot, who passed away in December at the age of 91. Bardot was once celebrated as an iconic figure in French cinema, with notable films like 'And God Created Woman' and 'Contempt,' but her later years were overshadowed by her affiliation with far-right politics and multiple convictions for inciting racial hatred.

Bardot's complex legacy was further highlighted when musician Chappell Roan rescinded a social media tribute shortly after Bardot's death, expressing shock at her controversial views and actions. Roan's decision to distance herself from Bardot's legacy reflects a growing awareness and rejection of figures whose public personas are tainted by problematic beliefs and actions. This incident indicates a shift in how celebrities and historical icons are evaluated in contemporary society, with audiences becoming more vocal about their values.

The community's response at the César awards is emblematic of broader societal tensions around legacy and accountability, especially within the context of public figures whose influence spans both celebratory and condemnatory aspects. As discussions around Bardot's contributions versus her later controversial stances continue, this tribute serves as a microcosm of the larger conversation about how society chooses to remember and honor figures from the past, especially those whose legacies are imbued with both admiration and scorn.