Patrick Bruel reaffirms his innocence amid sexual assault allegations

Monday 18 May 2026 - 07:00

French singer and actor Patrick Bruel has publicly reaffirmed his innocence after several sexual assault complaints were filed against him, including a recent accusation from television host Flavie Flament. The artist stated that he has “never forced” any woman into a sexual relationship and confirmed that he has no intention of leaving the stage or ending his artistic career.

In a message shared on Instagram, Patrick Bruel explained that he hesitated before speaking publicly about the accusations. Until now, his legal team had consistently denied all allegations of rape or sexual assault. The situation intensified after Flavie Flament announced that she had filed a complaint accusing the singer of rape in 1991.

Bruel strongly denied the accusations, saying that their relationship in the 1990s was brief and consensual. He insisted that there was “no violence, no coercion, and no drugs” involved. However, he acknowledged that the age difference between them could raise concerns today.

Flavie Flament alleges that she was drugged and assaulted when she was 16 years old, while Bruel was already a successful artist in his thirties following the commercial success of his album Alors, regarde.

French prosecutors confirmed that several complaints concerning alleged sexual violence involving Patrick Bruel are currently being examined. According to authorities, the different procedures could be centralized under the prosecutor’s office in Nanterre.

Despite the controversy, the singer declared that he intends to continue performing and defending himself in court. He stated that previous investigations related to earlier complaints had already been closed without prosecution.

Patrick Bruel is currently performing in a theater production in Paris while also preparing for a new tour scheduled to include dozens of dates across France, Belgium, Switzerland, and Quebec.

At the same time, feminist organizations and public figures have launched a petition calling for the cancellation of events celebrating the artist, arguing that the women who came forward deserve support and recognition.

Over a long career that began in the 1980s, Patrick Bruel became one of the most recognized names in French music and cinema, releasing numerous albums and collaborating with several major artists.