French singer Patrick Bruel arrested on multiple sexual assault accusations

French singer and actor Patrick Bruel was taken into custody by the Nanterre prosecutor’s office on suspicion of sexual violence. At least 13 women have accused the 67‑year‑old of rape, attempted rape and sexual coercion in incidents dating from 1997, 2000 and 2001. The investigation also covers alleged offenses from 2010 in Brussels and a 2012 case in Dinard, France. Bruel denies the allegations and his lawyers say he will cooperate with the inquiry. French authorities may decide by the end of the day whether to keep him in pre‑trial detention or release him pending further proceedings.

The accusations have prompted renewed media scrutiny of Bruel’s decades‑long career as a prominent figure in French pop culture.