edouard-baer-accuse-violences-sexuelles

The actor Édouard Baer accused of sexual violence by six women

undefined undefined 23 mai 2024 undefined 16h29

The Editor

© Denis Makarenko / Shutterstock

The news broke this Thursday, May 23 in the early afternoon: according to a joint investigation by Mediapart and Cheek, actor Édouard Baer is accused of sexual harassment and sexual assault by six different women.

A new scandal has hit French cinema, this time involving Édouard Baer. Six women have come forward with allegations of harassment and sexual assault against the actor, spanning from 2013 to 2021. Despite no formal complaints being filed yet, one of the accusers had considered taking legal action. The #MeToo movement continues to shake up the industry, shedding light on these disturbing incidents.

There have been allegations of inappropriate behavior by the actor, including attempts to touch breasts or buttocks against their will, unwanted kisses, and constant daily calls that amounted to harassment. While the details of the stories differ, all the women who have accused Édouard Baer have some common experiences. They were all in their twenties when they encountered him, at the start of their careers, and some were interns. They are also all "afro-descendants" as noted in the investigation.


Apologies from the actor

When approached by Médiapart, Édouard Baer didn't directly address the accusations, but he did offer an apology as recorded in the investigation: "I am shocked and deeply saddened by the testimonies that have come to light. I sincerely apologize to anyone who was hurt or made uncomfortable by my actions. It was never my intention to cause harm."

I have been told things that I don't remember. I can only express my regret that my behavior made these women uncomfortable or hurt. I failed to see it. I am truly sorry. I never meant to harm them. I apologize to all of them. Over the phone, the actor was still shocked that "women would be so mad at him." These accusations come after Edouard Baer's appearance on Laurent Delahousse's show on France 2 last May 13th. When asked about men's involvement in the #MeToo movement, the actor appeared confused. He was feeling uncomfortable, he who is usually so comfortable in front of the camera. He had notably mentioned the "terrible" climate of suspicion that would hang over men.