France’s César Awards To Ban Individuals Under Investigation For Sexual Violence

deadline.com:

The César Awards, France’s primary film awards ceremony, has announced that it will ban anyone who is being investigated for allegations of sexual misconduct from its ceremony next month.

The French Academy said the decision was taken “out of respect for the victims.” Under the new rules, any person facing allegations will be barred from all events associated with and organized by the Academy.

If a barred nominee wins an award, no person in attendance will be allowed to speak on their behalf. The decision by the César awards comes as controversy surrounds rising actor Sofiane Bennacer who is currently under investigation following allegations of rape and violence.

Bennacer was one of the 32 young performers selected for the 2023 edition of the César Academy Revelations talent showcase. In November, the French Academy removed Bennacer from the talent showcase and announced that it would set new rules for candidates undergoing a judicial procedure.