This Retired Icon Was One of the Sexiest Women of the 20th Century, Secretly Married, & Disappeared for Years

French icon Brigitte Bardot, renowned as one of the sexiest women of the 20th century, recently surfaced on her 89th birthday after years of seclusion. The film legend, secretly married to husband Bernard d’Ormale for 31 years, had a health scare earlier this year due to respiratory issues.

French former actress, singer and fashion model, now an animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot, opens a new enclosure at the Gevaudan Wolf Park, Les Loups du Gévaudan, in Sainte Lucie. This animal park was created by former journalist Gérard Ménatory. (Photo by Bernard Bisson/Sygma via Getty Images)

Known for her sultry charisma, Bardot, also a prominent animal rights activist, leads a colorful life. Despite initial doubts from friends, her secret marriage in 1992 brought newfound happiness. Bernard has been a steadfast companion through her health challenges, dispelling rumors of a sedative overdose in 1992 and addressing recent respiratory difficulties caused by age and a faulty air conditioning system.

January 1958: French film star and sex-symbol Brigitte Bardot enjoys the London night life. (Photo by Express/Express/Getty Images)

Recently seen on her birthday outing in the South of France, Bardot, in her mini white van, appeared in good spirits, dispelling previous health concerns. The revered icon’s enduring allure and enduring partnership with Bernard continue to captivate fans and the public alike.