Bilal Hassani documentary explores artist's struggle with online hate

Director Mireille Dumas is discussing her upcoming 70-minute documentary, ‘Bilal Hassani: Bats-toi comme une fille, mon fils’, which is scheduled to air on France 4 on October 19. The film provides an intimate look at the life of singer Bilal Hassani, exploring both his stage persona and his natural self.

The documentary examines the severe psychological impact of the intense online hate, death threats, and discrimination Hassani faced following his 16th-place finish at the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest. Dumas described the wave of homophobia, transphobia, and racism as ‘monstrous.’

The film also highlights the role of Hassani’s mother, Amina, in supporting him through a period of mental health struggles, including suicidal ideation caused by the cyberbullying. Dumas praised the artist's resilience and courage in maintaining his identity despite the backlash.