French singer and actor Patrick Bruel, a major figure in French pop culture, was taken into police custody on Monday as investigators look into sexual assault allegations from multiple women, including two new rape complaints.
New Allegations and Custody
The 67-year-old, who has released multiple top-selling albums and appeared in more than 40 films, is being questioned about 13 alleged victims, the prosecutor's office in Nanterre, a western Paris suburb, said in a statement. Three women have accused Bruel of sexual assault and attempted rape in 1997, 2000, and 2001, while other victims have reported sexual assaults, harassment, and rapes that are also under investigation.
Two new rape complaints were filed on 27 May and 3 June by two women, their lawyer told Agence France-Presse on Monday. Police can hold Bruel for questioning for up to 48 hours.
Bruel's Response
Bruel denies all allegations. His lawyers said in a statement that he would "answer all the investigators' questions and will provide all the elements necessary to demonstrate his innocence." He has cancelled most of his upcoming tour, which was due to start in Paris this month.
Context in French Entertainment
Bruel is the latest in a string of French movie and music celebrities to face sexual assault claims. Film legend Gérard Depardieu was sentenced to 18 months in prison last year; his appeal will be heard in November.
Agence France-Presse contributed to this report.
