A judicial investigation has been opened in Belgium targeting Patrick Bruel, the day after the announcement of proceedings initiated in France. On Wednesday, the Brussels public prosecutor's office confirmed that a complaint filed at the end of March in the Mons judicial district had been forwarded to them and that an investigation was now underway.
This complaint concerns an alleged sexual assault that reportedly took place in Brussels. It was filed by a Belgian press officer who claims the incident occurred in 2010 at the offices of RTBF, the Belgian public broadcaster.
In Paris, an investigation has been opened following a complaint filed on March 12.
In France, the Paris prosecutor's office announced on Tuesday the opening of an investigation following the filing, on March 12, of a complaint for attempted rape and sexual assault against Patrick Bruel. The complainant accuses Patrick Bruel of acts that may have been committed several decades ago.
The identity of this complainant has not been officially revealed by the Paris prosecutor's office. However, several concurring reports have indicated that it is Daniela Elstner, the current director general of Unifrance, the organization responsible for promoting French cinema internationally.
In this case, Patrick Bruel contested the accusations against him. Through his lawyer, Patrick Bruel asserted that he had not "Never overruled a refusal, never forced into a sexual act or relationship."
Old accusations that have already surfaced in other cases
Patrick Bruel's name had already surfaced in 2019 in connection with several cases. That year, two massage therapists filed complaints against him, one in Perpignan for sexual assault, the other in Corsica for indecent exposure and sexual harassment. These cases were ultimately dismissed.
During the investigations carried out at the time, other women were also interviewed by investigators for similar incidents, some dating back to 2008. Patrick Bruel was also the subject of a report from the Swiss authorities, which was also closed.
In 2026, new accusations led to the opening of several judicial investigations in France and Belgium, reviving questions about Patrick Bruel's legal situation.
Still strong popularity despite the scandals
Despite the legal troubles he faces, Patrick Bruel maintains a loyal fan base. Tickets for his upcoming tour, announced to begin in June, sold out quickly. Patrick Bruel also remains a regular performer with Les Enfoirés, the charity troupe for Les Restos du Cœur, which he joined in 1993.
This public loyalty is partly explained by Patrick Bruel's versatility; he has been present in music, theater, television, and film for over 40 years. This longevity has made Patrick Bruel a familiar figure to several generations.
A case now being followed on both sides of the border
With the opening of an investigation in Belgium following the one announced in France, Patrick Bruel's legal situation has taken a new turn. At this stage, the investigations are continuing in the various cases and no judicial conclusion has yet been reached. He is therefore presumed innocent at this time.
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