Jane Birkin, a singer, and actress, was discovered dead at her Paris residence.
According to French media, singer, and actress Jane Birkin died at the age of 76.
Jane Birkin, whose name inspired the Hermés Birkin handbag, was discovered dead at her home in France by her carer. Her death’s cause is still unknown.
In 2002, the 76-year-old singer was afflicted with leukemia, and in 2021, she had a stroke. She also had to cancel events in March due to a broken shoulder blade.
Jane Birkin was a singer and actress who was most known for her marriage to French singer and songwriter Serge Gainsbourg.
Jane was a cultural icon in the 1960s, which is why the iconic bag was named after her in 1981. However, in 2015, she publicly demanded that the brand stop using her name after seeing footage obtained by animal rights organization PETA allegedly showing “cruel practices endured by crocodiles during their slaughter for the production of Hermès bags.”
“Having been made aware of the cruel practices endured by crocodiles during their slaughter for the production of Hermès bags bearing my name, I have requested that the Birkin be renamed,” the actress said in a statement provided to Agence France-Presse. “Until better practices conforming to international standards for the production of this bag can be implemented.”
Following an examination of the farm, the French label addressed the problem in a second statement, stating that they may preserve the Birkin brand for the coveted accessories.
“Following the heartfelt emotion expressed by Jane Birkin and her request for explanation, Hermès, in agreement with her, reiterates its firm commitment to the ethical treatment of crocodiles in its partner farms,” the statement said.
Our thoughts are with Jane’s family and friends.
