A French singer and actor has been arrested after shocking claims have emerged from multiple women alleging sexual assault. Patrick Bruel, a 67-year-old pop star, was taken into custody following accusations from over 30 women, with the investigation now focusing on 13 alleged victims, according to the Nanterre prosecutor's office.
Allegations and Investigation
The singer stands accused of rape by three women between 1997 and 2001. Investigators are also examining reports of rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, and harassment from other women. The Nanterre public prosecutor's office stated that the investigation concerns sexual violence involving 13 alleged victims.
Bruel has strongly denied all claims, stating on social media, 'I have never forced a woman. And if I hurt anyone, I sincerely regret it.' His legal team said he would answer all questions and provide evidence to demonstrate his innocence.
Impact on Career
Following his arrest on June 8, Bruel has been forced to cancel most of a summer international concert tour scheduled to start in June, which included stops in France, Switzerland, Belgium, and Canada. Additionally, the Édouard VII Theatre in Paris cancelled the final five days of a play he was starring in.
Key Accuser: Flavie Flament
Among the alleged victims is television presenter and journalist Flavie Flament, who claims Bruel drugged and raped her in a Paris apartment when she was 16. She went public with her allegations on French television last month, writing on social media, 'I am filing a complaint against Patrick Bruel for rape. So that the truth comes out, so that justice is served.'
Flament alleges that after accepting a cup of tea from Bruel, she 'blacked out' and woke up hallucinating while he was allegedly putting her pants back on. She claims he then dropped her off near the Saint-Lazare train station. Bruel acknowledged a brief consensual encounter in the early 1990s but denied drugging or assaulting her. Prosecutors have said they will not question Bruel about these specific claims.
Public and Government Response
In May, government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon encouraged women to come forward with allegations of sexual violence against the singer, 'even decades later,' adding that it is up to the justice system to establish the truth. Protests have also occurred, with feminist collective NousToutes demonstrating outside the Édouard VII Theatre with placards reading 'Bruel=rapist.'
The investigation was prompted by claims published by investigative website Mediapart. Bruel remains in custody as authorities continue their inquiries.
