Patrick Bruel faces opposition from French mayors over sexual assault allegations

Several French mayors are publicly opposing upcoming concert dates for singer Patrick Bruel following numerous allegations of sexual violence. Bruel is currently under investigation in four cases and has been granted the status of assisted witness in four others, with over 30 complaints filed involving rape, attempted rape, and sexual harassment.

In Amiens, Mayor Frédéric Fauvet stated that the singer is ‘not welcome’ and called for him to cancel his October performances to allow the justice system to work. However, he noted that the municipality lacks the legal leverage to unilaterally cancel contracts without facing significant financial risks and potential lawsuits for breach of contract.

Similarly, the mayors of Dijon and Strasbourg have expressed strong disapproval. Nathalie Koenders of Dijon called his presence on stage ‘inappropriate’ given the gravity of the accusations, while Catherine Trautmann of Strasbourg has requested that venue managers explore all legal avenues to prevent his scheduled November performance.

Patrick Bruel has firmly denied all accusations, stating, ‘I have never forced a woman.’ Despite the controversy and calls from feminist collectives to boycott his 35-date anniversary tour, the singer intends to proceed with his scheduled performances starting in October.