7 Things You Didn’t Know About Jane Birkin

British-born Jane Birkin, an emblematic figure of French pop culture, has had a career spanning five decades. She rose to global fame in the late 60s and has since become a fashion icon, humanitarian, singer, and actress. Her life has been as unconventional as it has been inspiring, and here we explore some lesser-known facets of her intriguing personality and colorful life.

1. Not Fluent in French When She Started Her Career in France

Born in London, Jane Birkin moved to France and kick-started her career as an actress and singer even though she did not initially speak French fluently. Best known for her provocative duet “Je t’aime… moi non plus” with Serge Gainsbourg, she turned a seeming disadvantage into an avenue of growth and innovation. While she grappled with the complexities of the French language, she defied odds and pushed the boundaries of her creativity.

Learning French on the go, she performed in both English and French, and eventually mastered the language to such a level that it became an integral part of her identity. Her indomitable spirit and fearless pursuit of her passions, even amidst language barriers, set the stage for an illustrious career that would transcend borders and languages.

2. The Inspiration Behind the Hermès Birkin Bag

Jane Birkin’s name has been immortalized in the realm of high fashion thanks to the iconic Hermès Birkin bag. Named after her, this bag was created following a chance meeting with Jean-Louis Dumas, the then Chief Executive of Hermès, on a flight from Paris to London. Birkin’s straw bag had spilled its contents, and a conversation ensued about what the ideal handbag would look like for a woman of her lifestyle.

Dumas not only listened but acted upon the discussion, resulting in a bag that would become a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Despite the high-end association, many may not be aware that Birkin has auctioned off several of her namesake bags for charity, showing her philanthropic spirit and the lesser-known reality behind her relationship with these coveted accessories.

3. Active Philanthropist and Humanitarian

While Birkin’s public image is often tied to her accomplishments in the arts, she is also a fervent philanthropist and humanitarian. Her dedication towards humanitarian causes, particularly those related to AIDS relief, is commendable. She has been a vocal advocate, raising awareness and participating in various charity auctions and events.

Birkin’s involvement in philanthropy extends beyond one-time events; she leverages her high-profile platform to draw attention to social issues she is passionate about. This dimension of her personality provides a broader understanding of who Jane Birkin is – not just an artist but a woman with a deep concern for the welfare of others.

4. A Multi-faceted Artist

Jane Birkin’s talents extend beyond the realms of singing and acting that she’s so well known for. A lesser-known fact about her is her flair for writing and photography. In 1985, she wrote a memoir, “Quelque chose est là dehors” (Something Is Out There), offering an intimate look into her life.

In addition to writing, Birkin’s photography is noteworthy and has been exhibited globally. Her photos often offer a raw and personal perspective, highlighting her life, her family, and her travels. Whether behind the camera or wielding a pen, Birkin’s artistry shines through, offering a deeper look into her multi-faceted life.

5. Refused to be Typecast

Even at the height of her fame, Birkin refused to be typecast or pigeonholed into a specific image. Following the release of the song “Je t’aime… moi non plus,” she was often portrayed as a ‘sex kitten’. However, Birkin consciously worked against this image, opting for a diverse range of roles that allowed her to showcase her acting abilities.

One of these roles was in Jacques Rivette’s film “L’amour par terre” (Love on the Ground), where she played a struggling actress seeking recognition. Her refusal to be typecast demonstrated her commitment to her craft and her refusal to let public perception define her capabilities and career trajectory.

6. Dealt with Personal Tragedies

The glitz and glamour of Birkin’s career are contrasted by a series of personal tragedies. In 2013, she suffered an enormous loss with the death of her eldest daughter, Kate Barry. Despite the immense heartache, Birkin displayed immense strength and resilience, using her personal pain as a driving force in her work.

Birkin’s ability to navigate such personal tragedies while maintaining her professional commitments showcases her incredible fortitude. This aspect of her life has made her an emblem of strength for many, revealing a depth to her character that extends far beyond her public persona.

7. An Unplanned Singing Career

Interestingly, Birkin’s illustrious singing career wasn’t something she had initially planned. Her iconic partnership with Serge Gainsbourg began somewhat spontaneously. This collaboration, which would go on to define her as a prominent figure in French pop music, was an unexpected twist in her career trajectory.

Despite this, Birkin embraced the opportunity and the challenges it presented. She used this unexpected turn to explore a new facet of her artistic expression, ultimately creating some of the most iconic music of her era. Her unplanned singing career is a testament to her adaptability and creativity, and it stands as a reminder of her impact on the music industry.

Jane Birkin’s life story is far more nuanced than the pop culture icon we recognize her as. She is an artist with multiple talents, a compassionate humanitarian, and an individual of strength and resilience. The deeper we delve into her life, the more we discover a woman who continually defied expectations and who inspires through her creativity, empathy, and unwavering spirit.