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Actress, singer and fashion icon Jane Birkin has passed away

She was 76 years old.
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Jane Birkin has sadly passed away, aged 76.

The British-born actress, singer and fashion icon first rose to fame in the late 1960s, namely because of her role in the French film Slogan but also because of the highly controversial and provocative song Je t’aime… moi non plus (I love you… me neither) she released with Serge Gainsbourg – who she would go on to have a decade-long musical and romantic partnership with.

At the time, Je t’aime… moi non plus caused a scandal due to its explicit lyrics and sensuality, resulting in bans and controversy in several countries, including the United Kingdom.

Jane Birkin has passed away.

(Credit: (Image: Getty))

Despite being attached to such a controversial song, Jane went on to have a prolific career as both an actress and singer, even earning ‘icon’ status in France simply because of the sheer number of French films she starred in.

Jane also became an influential figure in the fashion industry, thanks to her effortless beauty and unique style.

One of her most notable contributions to fashion was the creation of the iconic Hermès Birkin bag.

She was 76 years old.

(Credit: (Image: Getty))

The story goes that during a flight in 1983, Birkin happened to spill the contents of her bag, catching the attention of the then-president of Hermès, Jean-Louis Dumas. This encounter led to the development of the now highly sought-after luxury handbag, which became a symbol of status and style.

French media have reported that Jane was found dead in her home in Paris on July 16, 2023 but the cause of death has not yet been revealed.

What is Jane Birkin famous for?

Jane Birkin was famous for several things. She had a successful acting and singing career and was also a fashion icon.

What movies was Jane Birkin in?

Jane Birkin starred in numerous films but she was best known for her roles in Blow-Up, Slogan, Death on the Nile, The Swimming Pool, Leave All Fair, Dust, Evil Under the Sun and Boxes.

Jane first rose to fame in the late 1960s.

(Credit: (Image: Getty))

What nationality was Jane Birkin?

Jane Birkin was born in London, England on December 14, 1946. However, at age 20, and without knowing the language, Jane moved to France. Jane quickly became an icon in France though, became a French citizen, and lived there for most of her life.

Did Jane Birkin have children?

Yes, Jane Birkin had three children.

Jane welcomed her first child – Kate Barry – with her first husband, British composer John Barry. Kate was born in 1967 and went on to become a successful photographer for Vogue and The Sunday Times Magazine before her untimely death in 2013.

Jane’s second child – Charlotte Gainsbourg – was shared with her long-time partner Serge Gainsbourg. Charlotte was born in 1971 and is currently an actress and singer.

Jane’s third child – Lou Doillon – was shared with her partner Jacques Doillon. Lou was born in 1982 and is currently an actress, singer and model.

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