French film star Bardot plays down health fears

French 91-year-old film icon Brigitte Bardot on Wednesday evening sought to quell persistent speculation over her health on social media, criticising "idiot" internet users.

"I'm doing well," the '60s star and outspoken animal rights activist posted on X.

"I don't know which idiot started this 'fake news' story about my death tonight, but rest assured that I am fine and have no intention of bowing out."

The health of Bardot, star of classic films such as "And God Created Woman" and "Contempt", has been the subject of persistent rumours in recent days.

She underwent surgery last week at a private hospital in southern France for what her office told AFP was a "minor" procedure that "went particularly well".

But Bardot swiftly returned on Friday to her home in Saint-Tropez, the glitzy riviera resort town to which she retreated in 1973 after turning her back on her film career.