The entertainment world is deeply saddened by the loss of Jane Birkin, the cherished British actor and singer who captivated audiences in France. At the age of 76, she passed away after a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished. As we remember her remarkable career, it’s worth noting that Jane Birkin had an estimated net worth of around $20 million at the time of her passing, accumulated through her endeavors as both an actress and singer.
Jane Birkin’s musical journey included the release of 13 studio albums, with her collaborative debut album alongside Serge Gainsbourg propelling her to mainstream popularity and success. One of the standout moments in her musical career was the unforgettable song “Je t’aime… moi non plus,” which not only topped the UK Singles charts but also became the first foreign language song to reach the number one spot. However, due to its explicit nature, the song faced bans in various countries.
Born in London, Jane Birkin found a second home in France, where she became an international sensation. Her unique style, characterized by her trademark eye-skimming bangs and timeless fashion choices, embodied the effortless elegance that has come to define French chic.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Birkin inadvertently lent her name to the iconic Hermès Birkin bag. After an encounter with Hermès chief executive Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight, where they bonded over their dissatisfaction with weekend bags, Birkin became the inspiration behind the coveted fashion accessory. The Birkin bag quickly became a symbol of status and luxury, with some carrying an astounding price tag of up to $500,000.
Jane Birkin’s impact extended far beyond her artistic achievements. She fearlessly used her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart, standing up against far-right ideologies and fighting for human rights and social justice.
From her early days protesting against capital punishment on the streets of London to her unwavering support for women’s rights, particularly in the fight for abortion rights, Birkin consistently demonstrated her unwavering commitment. She stood in solidarity with four women accused of aiding a high school student named Marie-Claire Chevalier in obtaining an abortion following a traumatic assault, lending her voice to the landmark Bobigny trial.
In 2010, Birkin once again showed her dedication to social causes by condemning the treatment of undocumented migrants by the French government. Her advocacy for immigrant rights shed light on the importance of compassion and understanding in society.