Renowned French musician and actress Jane Birkin, recognized worldwide and mother to Charlotte Gainsbourg, has passed away at the age of 76, according to a report by Le Parisien. Birkin was discovered deceased in her Parisian residence. Earlier in May, due to health concerns, she was compelled to postpone a series of concerts planned for June in various Paris locations. Her cause of death remains unannounced. France’s Ministry of Culture paid tribute to Birkin, praising her as an “eternal symbol of Francophone culture.”
The Agence France-Presse received a statement from the Birkin family in September 2021, saying that Jane was recuperating from “a mild stroke.” This health issue led her to pull out of the American Film Festival held in Deauville, France, where she was scheduled to discuss her daughter Charlotte Gainsbourg’s documentary, “Jane by Charlotte.” Birkin had a prior diagnosis of leukemia in 2002.
Born on December 14, 1946, Jane Birkin was raised in London, the daughter of an actress and a senior Royal Navy officer. She started her acting journey with small roles in the mid-1960s before securing substantial parts in films like Blowup, Kaleidoscope, and Wonderwall that represented the counterculture movement.
Her acting path crossed with Serge Gainsbourg through the film “Slogan,” where they both performed the theme song and starred as the lead characters. Their provocative single “Je t’aime moi non plus”—the introductory track on their 1969 album—became infamous for its explicit sensuality. Birkin and Gainsbourg shared a decade-long romantic relationship, with Birkin featuring on the cover and contributing vocals to Gainsbourg’s renowned 1971 album, “Histoire de Melody Nelson.” She also starred in “Je t’aime moi non plus,” Gainsbourg’s maiden movie.
Birkin and Gainsbourg had a daughter, Charlotte Gainsbourg, in 1971, but they never tied the knot and split in 1980. Prior to Gainsbourg, Birkin was married to the James Bond score composer, John Barry, with whom she had a daughter named Kate in 1967 before their divorce a year later. In 1982, Birkin and her then-partner, French film director Jacques Doillon, celebrated the birth of their daughter Lou Doillon, who is now a singer and actress.
Birkin’s career in music persisted beyond her partnership with Gainsbourg. She consistently stayed involved in artistic ventures throughout her lifetime, featuring in films such as Death on the Nile, Dark Places, and Evil Under the Sun. Her music career extended well into the 2000s, producing over 15 solo albums, along with a 2017 album of Serge Gainsbourg’s songs reimagined with orchestral compositions. Her final album, “Oh! Pardon tu dormais…,” was released in 2020.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jane Birkin’s death
What was Jane Birkin’s profession?
Jane Birkin was a well-known actress and singer. She was also recognized as a style icon.
Who reported Jane Birkin’s death?
Jane Birkin’s death was reported by the French newspaper, Le Parisien.
What was Jane Birkin’s cause of death?
As of the report, the cause of Jane Birkin’s death has not been announced.
What was Jane Birkin’s age at the time of her death?
Jane Birkin was 76 years old at the time of her death.
Who is Jane Birkin’s famous daughter?
Jane Birkin’s famous daughter is Charlotte Gainsbourg, a renowned actress and singer.
When was Jane Birkin born?
Jane Birkin was born on December 14, 1946.
Who are the famous partners of Jane Birkin?
Jane Birkin was partnered with John Barry, Serge Gainsbourg, and Jacques Doillon at different times in her life.
What is one of Jane Birkin’s well-known albums?
One of Jane Birkin’s well-known albums is “Histoire de Melody Nelson,” released in 1971, where she collaborated with Serge Gainsbourg.
More about Jane Birkin’s death
- Jane Birkin’s IMDb Profile
- Charlotte Gainsbourg’s IMDb Profile
- Le Parisien
- Information about “Histoire de Melody Nelson”
- Agence France-Presse
- Jane Birkin’s Discography
- Biography of Serge Gainsbourg
