Cannes Festival Responds to #MeToo with Red Carpet Ban

The Cannes Film Festival has banned French actor Théo Navarro-Mussy from attending the red carpet premiere of Dossier 137, following sexual assault accusations made by three former partners. While the case was officially dropped last month due to insufficient evidence, the women plan to appeal and file a civil lawsuit. Festival director Thierry Frémaux confirmed the decision, stating that ongoing legal proceedings prompted the exclusion, as the French magazine Télérama confirms. This move aligns Cannes with the César Awards' policy to bar individuals under investigation for sexual assault.

Navarro-Mussy, best known for his role in the TV drama Hippocrate, denies the accusations but has expressed understanding of the festival’s stance. He voiced concern for his career, noting that the closure of the case should weigh into consideration. His lawyer, however, stated he had not been informed of any official appeal. Director Dominik Moll, whose The Night of the 12th focused on violence against women, claimed he was unaware of the allegations prior to filming and emphasized that nothing occurred during production.

This decision follows increasing scrutiny in France’s film industry, highlighted by a recent parliamentary report that called abuse in the entertainment sector "endemic." It also comes shortly after Gérard Depardieu was handed a suspended sentence for sexual assault. With global attention fixed on Cannes, the festival’s actions are seen as a response to mounting calls for accountability in the post-#MeToo era.