César film awards ban nominees investigated for sexual violence
The César film awards – France’s version of the Oscars, will ban anyone facing a potential prison sentence for sexual assault from its 2023 ceremony.
The new rules for the ceremony – which will be held next month – mean French actor Sofiane Bennacer will be banned. He is currently being investigated for allegations of rape which he denies.
‘Fears of protests’
There had been fears that protesters would disrupt the awards ceremony if Mr Bennacer attended – he had already been removed from the nominations list in November.
In 2020, Roman Polanksi – wanted for statutory rape in the US, won best director and the ceremony faced severe backlash.
César film awards new rule
The new rule means anyone being investigated for violent crimes punishable by imprisonment – especially those of a sexual nature – will be barred from attending this year’s ceremony on 25 February.
The rule also applies to anyone who has been convicted of such an offence.
The Academy will vote on whether to permanently change eligibility criteria.
“Out of respect for the victims… it has been decided not to highlight people who may have been implicated by the judiciary in acts of violence”
Statement released by César film awards
The statement noted that this included “presumed” victims in cases under investigation.
