As the 72nd Cannes film festival gets underway, organisers have come under pressure to withhold an honorary award intended for French actor Alain Delon.This after an online petition with 18,000 signatures appeared, accusing the 83 year-old of being violent towards women.
The petition, hosted on the Care2 website, described Delon as a “racist, homophobic misogynist.”
Women and Hollywood, a prominent US advocacy group in the #MeToo movement within the film industry, expressed disappointment at the decision to award him an honorary Palme d’Or, stating that it was a poor decision.
Melissa Silverstein, the founder of Women and Hollywood, tweeted her dismay at Cannes honoring Delon, citing his public admission of slapping women and his views on homosexuality.
Delon, known for roles in “The Leopard” and “Le Samourai,” acknowledged hitting women during a French television interview. His son also accused him of domestic violence against his mother.
Delon’s political views, including support for far-right movements and anti-immigration stances, have drawn criticism. He has also publicly opposed gay couples’ rights to have or adopt children.
Cannes director Thierry Fremaux defended the decision, stating they were honoring Delon’s career, not his personal views. He emphasized the complexity of judging past actions and statements.
Another controversial figure at Cannes is director Abdellatif Kechiche, facing allegations of sexual assault from a young actress. Kechiche, known for “Blue Is the Warmest Colour,” denies the accusation.
The Cannes festival has faced scrutiny over its handling of sexual harassment and abuse, with previous protests and calls for zero tolerance led by figures like Cate Blanchett.
