Actress and singer Jane Birkin, known for her iconic presence in France, has passed away in Paris at the age of 76. The French Culture Ministry mourned the loss of a "timeless Francophone

icon." Reports indicate that she was found dead at her home, and it is mentioned that she had previously experienced health issues, including a mild stroke in 2021 and heart problems.

Jane Birkin gained international recognition for her 1969 hit song "Je t'aime...moi non plus," performed with her former partner, the late French singer and songwriter Serge Gainsbourg. Beyond her music career and numerous film roles, she was admired for her warm personality and advocacy for women's and LGBT rights.

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo described Birkin as the "most Parisian of the English" and highlighted her unforgettable songs, infectious laughter, and unique accent that accompanied her interactions.

Born Jane Mallory Birkin in London in 1946, she began her career in the entertainment industry at a young age. She appeared in the 1965 musical "Passion Flower Hotel" and later gained notoriety for her role in the controversial 1966 film "Blow-Up," where she featured in a memorable nude scene.

However, it was in France that Birkin truly established herself as a prominent figure. Her relationship with Gainsbourg and her distinctive tomboyish style and endearing British accent when speaking French contributed to her fame. Following their breakup in 1981, Birkin continued to pursue her artistic endeavors, releasing albums such as "Baby Alone in Babylone" (1983) and "Amour des Feintes" (1990), both featuring music and lyrics by Gainsbourg. She also wrote her own album, "Arabesque," in 2002 and released live recordings in "Jane at the Palace" in 2009.

French singer Etienne Daho, who collaborated with Birkin on her last album in 2020, expressed his disbelief at a world without her presence. The meeting between Birkin and Gainsbourg occurred on the set of the film "Slogan" in 1969, marking the beginning of a passionate love affair that captured the nation's attention. Their collaboration on the song "Je T'Aime... Moi Non Plus" caused controversy and was met with bans and condemnation.

Birkin's relationship with Gainsbourg eventually ended due to his struggles with alcoholism. She later formed a partnership with film director Jacques Doillon but remained close to Gainsbourg until his death in 1991. Birkin's influence extended to the fashion world, inspiring the creation of the iconic Birkin bag by luxury brand Hermes when its CEO witnessed her struggling with her straw bag during a flight.

Jane Birkin is survived by her two daughters, singer and actress Charlotte (born 1971) and actress Lou Doillon (born 1982). She also had a daughter named Kate, who passed away in 2013. Photo by Mariusz Kubik, Wikimedia commons.