The council deliberated on Thursday, April 9. It’s official: the municipal cinema Les Étoiles will indeed be renamed Brigitte Bardot cinema. The opposition, seeing a controversial figure beyond the icon, requested a reconsideration of this choice and to involve the residents in the decision-making process.
Since the municipality took back full management and operation of the municipal cinema on January 1, 2025, they had quickly considered a change in its name. One of the reasons cited was the confusion with the new complex in Béthune built in 2020 and named Étoile Cinémas. Following the death of Brigitte Bardot in December, Mayor Ludovic Pajot had expressed his intention to rename the cinema in her honor.
Brigitte Bardot, a supporter of the National Rally (RN) party, had been married to Bernard d’Ormale, an ex-counselor and friend of Jean-Marie, and had openly admired Marine Le Pen. In 2025, Hénin-Beaumont dedicated an avenue to the actress in the presence of her husband and Marine Le Pen.
The proposal to rename the cinema had to be deliberated by the municipal council. This decision was a key item on the agenda for the Thursday session. Clément Huchette, the 2nd deputy, presented it to the assembly as an attempt to associate the municipal cinema with a major figure in French culture, art, and values.
A controversial figure that sparks debate
Samuel Courtin, an opposition member, disagreed with this decision. While acknowledging Bardot’s place in French cinema history, he also labeled her as a “deeply divisive personality” and pointed out her previous convictions for racist remarks. Courtin believed that associating the cinema with such a controversial figure could create unnecessary tensions among the public.
Proposing a naming contest with the residents
Courtin proposed a collective approach where a naming contest would be open to residents, associations, and schools. This initiative aimed to engage the community directly and select a name that resonated with the local identity and promoted unity.
The RN majority makes a final decision
The mayor defended the choice of renaming the cinema after Brigitte Bardot, citing the support received during the election. Despite opposition, the majority in the council approved the decision to change the name, with only three opposing votes. The cinema will transition to the new name but may retain the old one for a period.
Following the decision, discontent was evident on social media, with some expressing attachment to the original name of the cinema and others criticizing the choice of Bardot due to her controversial stances. Some residents felt the city should prioritize other issues. The debate continues on whether the decision was the right one.
Author: A.D-B
