Gilles Lellouche reacted to the controversy sparked at the Cannes Film Festival after the film's press conference Millin which he portrays Jean Moulin. In an Instagram story, the actor states that he has "never supported" and does not want to "never support" a party or ideology based on hatred, intolerance or discrimination.
The question that sparked the outcry
On May 18, during the Cannes presentation of Mill, a journalist from the pro-LFI media Words of honor Gilles Lellouche was questioned about the link between the memory of Jean Moulin, the fight against the far right, and the French presidential election scheduled for 2027. The question focused in particular on the National Rally and the potential role of La France Insoumise as a bulwark against the far right. Faced with this question, the actor essentially replied that the question seemed leading, before adding: "I don't have an answer to that, sir." Director László Nemes also refused to enter into the French political debate, explaining that the team had come to present a film dedicated to Jean Moulin.
From social media to political accusations
The video quickly circulated on X, TikTok, and Instagram. Many internet users criticized Gilles Lellouche for not explicitly condemning the far right while he was there to promote a film about one of the great figures of the Resistance. Some nicknamed him " Gilles Lelâche », a phrase that went viral in comments and parodies. In his response, the actor denounced a wave of reactions he deemed unfair, referring to a " violence " and "insulting shortcuts"He claims to have been called a coward, even portrayed as a supporter of the far right, which he firmly rejects.
Gilles Lellouche rejects any attempt at exploitation
The actor also criticizes the way his initial response was exploited by the far right. According to him, some leaders and supporters of this political camp were quick to interpret his silence as implicit support. His clarification aims to resolve this ambiguity: he asserts that he will defend "always the values of the Republic" and links this position to the historic struggle led by Jean Moulin.
Mill, a highly political film despite itself
Presented in official competition at the 79th Cannes Film Festival, Mill Directed by László Nemes, the film recounts the arrest of Jean Moulin in June 1943 and his confrontation with Klaus Barbie, head of the Gestapo in Lyon. Gilles Lellouche plays Jean Moulin, alongside Lars Eidinger as Klaus Barbie. The 130-minute film focuses on the final days of the resistance fighter and his struggle against Nazi brutality. Its theatrical release is scheduled for October, with October 28th being a possible date.
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