Brigitte Bardot’s Passing Sparks Reflection on Billy Joel’s “We Didn’t Start the Fire”
The pop classic “We Didn’t Start the Fire” by Billy Joel has been revisited following the death of French actress Brigitte Bardot this past Sunday. The song, which was released in 1989, chronicles 59 notable figures—both celebrated and infamous—who played a significant role in the mid-20th century.
At the age of 91, Bardot’s death leaves just three individuals from the song still living. A graph circulating on Reddit illustrates the names included in Joel’s work.
Among the personalities listed are historical figures like Harry Truman, Marilyn Monroe, and Richard Nixon, alongside celebrities like Joe DiMaggio and Bob Dylan. Other names include Queen Elizabeth II, Albert Einstein, and Fidel Castro. Notably, musicians Bob Dylan, Chubby Checker, and subway shooter Bernie Goetz, who is now 87, are among the few remaining.
Memories and Reflections
Joel shared in a 1994 discussion that the idea for the song emerged from a conversation with John Lennon’s son, Sean. “It was my 40th birthday, and I was reflecting on the world,” Joel recounted, mentioning how his friend’s perception of adulthood today contrasted with his own experiences as a child. That reflection led him to write about significant historical events, ultimately shaping the song’s narrative.
Interestingly, Joel felt a certain “symmetry” in the 40-year timeline the song covers, from 1949 to 1989. Yet, he initially questioned its quality, revealing to an audience, “I didn’t think it was that good at first.”
Remembering Brigitte Bardot
Bardot, eternally linked to her roles in films like “And God Created Woman,” was not only a celebrated actress but also became an ardent animal rights advocate later in life. Following her passing, the Brigitte Bardot Foundation expressed deep sadness at the loss of its founder, who dedicated her life to animal welfare after stepping away from her illustrious career.
The announcement highlighted her legacy as both a world-renowned actress and a committed activist, adding another layer to her already impactful life.
