Scandal Surrounding Depardieu: Why the Actor's Wax Statue Was Removed from a Paris Museum

The Paris wax museum has removed the wax statue of actor Gérard Depardieu from its exhibit following negative visitor reactions. This was reported today by France-Presse, citing the museum's management.

The museum clarified that after the actor came under media scrutiny due to a scandal, visitors began leaving negative comments about him. Prior to this, it was announced on December 14th that French actress Émanuelle Debever, who had accused Depardieu of sexual assault, had died by suicide. The Paris prosecutor's office has decided to launch an investigation into the possible causes of her death.

During her lifetime, Debever publicly stated that the actor had harassed her on set. The following day, France's Culture Minister Rima Abdul-Malak stated that Depardieu was disgraceful to France with his behavior, believing that the artist's sexist remarks about women have brought shame to the country. She also added that disciplinary procedures are intended to strip the actor of the Legion of Honor award. After December 16, Depardieu returned his award to the agency.

The 74-year-old actor was first accused of sexual violence back in April when 13 women, including actresses, extras, and makeup artists, came forward regarding his inappropriate behavior.