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Fifth Element director Luc Besson accused of rape

Photo credit: Mauricio Santana/Getty Images
Photo credit: Mauricio Santana/Getty Images

From Digital Spy

Note: The following article contains discussion of sexual misconduct allegations that some readers may find upsetting.

Director Luc Besson has been accused of rape by a French actress.

A report in Europe 1 states that an unnamed 27-year-old French actress claimed on Friday (May 18) that the filmmaker drugged and raped her during a meeting in Paris.

Besson's laywer Thierry Marembert told The Hollywood Reporter: "Mr Besson fell off his chair when he learned of these accusations, which he flatly denies."

The lawyer added to AFP: "Luc Besson categorically denies these fantasist accusations. [The complainant] is someone he knows, towards whom he has never behaved inappropriately."

French police are investigating the allegation.

Photo credit: Mauricio Santana/Getty Images
Photo credit: Mauricio Santana/Getty Images

Related: Valerian director Luc Besson slams Captain America "propaganda"

Besson is best known for his early action films including Nikita, Leon, The Fifth Element and Taxi, as well as his writing and production on the Transporter and Taken series.

Most recently, Besson worked on the Dane De Haan and Cara Delevingne-starring Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets and he also directed 2014 box office hit Lucy.


Rape Crisis England and Wales works towards the elimination of all forms of sexual violence and sexual misconduct. If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland's helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.

Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.


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