Patrick Bruel: Actress Anny Duperey Defends Singer Against Sexual Assault Accusations

French singer Patrick Bruel is facing a growing number of accusations of sexual assault, with at least two formal complaints filed and several other women coming forward with allegations spanning from 1992 to 2019. The 66-year-old artist vehemently denies the accusations, but the case has ignited a public debate in France, drawing support for Bruel from actress Anny Duperey.

The first publicly confirmed complaint was filed in Paris by Daniela Elstner, director general of Unifrance, alleging sexual assault and attempted rape. A second complaint was filed in Saint-Malo in September 2024, accusing Bruel of rape related to an incident during the Dinard British Film Festival in October 2012. According to reports from franceinfo and AFP, these are distinct complaints with separate procedural contexts and alleged acts.

In addition to the formal complaints, investigative site Mediapart reported accusations from six other women detailing incidents of sexual violence between 1992 and 2019. Bruel’s lawyer, Christophe Ingrain, has stated that his client denies all allegations.

Actress Anny Duperey Defends Bruel

Amidst the accusations, actress Anny Duperey, 78, has publicly defended Bruel, suggesting that he may have been the target of a false accusation. Speaking on the YouTube channel ABC Talk TV, Duperey stated, “It Was He Who Could Have Filed a Complaint of Sexual Assault!” She questioned the dynamics between stars and their fans, implying that the accusers may have been the aggressors.

“It Was He Who Could Have Filed a Complaint of Sexual Assault!”

Anny Duperey

Duperey’s comments, reported by Le Figaro, have sparked further discussion about the complexities of sexual assault allegations, particularly those involving public figures. She reportedly suggested that Girls when They Want something… implying a possible motive for false accusations.

Growing Chorus of Accusations

The accusations against Bruel are the latest in a series of similar allegations against prominent French figures in the entertainment industry. A collective of individuals has called for the cancellation of Bruel’s upcoming concert, arguing that performing while under investigation sends the wrong message, as reported by France 3 Régions.

The case is currently under investigation by French authorities. The Saint-Malo prosecutor’s office has confirmed the investigation into the 2012 allegations, while the Paris prosecutor’s office is handling the complaint filed by Daniela Elstner. The investigations are ongoing and no charges have been filed against Bruel at this time.

Bruel, a popular singer and actor in France, has enjoyed a decades-long career. He is known for hits such as “Casser la voix” and has appeared in numerous films. The allegations have cast a shadow over his career and prompted a wave of reactions from the public and the media.

The case continues to develop as more information emerges. The conflicting narratives – the accusations from multiple women and the staunch denial from Bruel, coupled with the support from figures like Anny Duperey – highlight the sensitive and complex nature of these allegations.