Patrick Bruel cancels remaining tour dates amid sexual violence allegations

Bruel had been due to begin a 35-date tour in October, celebrating the 35th anniversary of his album Alors regarde.

Dates included a performance in Marseille on 30 October followed by Nice on 31 October, with the tour scheduled to continue until 21 November.

Part of his concert schedule had already been cancelled at the end of May.

Several mayors, including those in cities where he was due to perform, had also called for further shows to be cancelled.

Bruel has been formally charged in four cases involving allegations of sexual violence and placed under assisted witness status in four others.

Around 30 women have reportedly made allegations against him, including accusations of rape, attempted rape and sexual assault.

He denies the allegations and remains presumed innocent.

Explaining his decision, the singer said he had wanted to continue performing and that maintaining the tour until now had not been intended as a provocation.

He added that cancelling the concerts did not mean he was abandoning his efforts to defend himself and said he would continue to fight to have his innocence recognised.

His lawyer, Fanny Colin, said that the decision had been made to protect his fans and ease tensions surrounding the performances.

She also said the cancellation had not been influenced by opposition from local mayors, arguing that Bruel remained entitled to the presumption of innocence while the judicial proceedings continue.

The decision means the planned 30 October concert in Marseille and 31 October show in Nice will no longer go ahead, along with the other remaining dates on the tour.