Switzerland's Paleo Festival ends cooperation with Patrick Bruel following allegations by volunteer masseuses

Nyon – May 25, 2026: The Paleo Festival in Nyon, Switzerland, ended its cooperation with French singer Patrick Bruel after a volunteer masseuse reported his “unacceptable behavior” in 2019. This decision was made following a report on the French TV show “Sept à Huit” aired on May 24, 2026, in which the masseuse spoke about an incident during Bruel’s performance at the Paleo Festival in July 2019.

According to the masseuse who wished to remain anonymous, Bruel was completely naked lying on a bed backstage at the festival while receiving a massage, and he requested a massage around the pubic area. She described this behavior as “unacceptable.” The Paleo Festival issued a statement on social media, saying it took the incident “very seriously” and would support the volunteer staff. “Patrick Bruel will no longer be invited to the Paleo Festival,” it clearly stated.

After the 2019 incident, the masseuse took legal action but reportedly reached a settlement. According to reports, she withdrew her complaint in exchange for a financial agreement, during which Bruel donated several thousand euros to an immigration support organization. Bruel’s lawyer acknowledged the settlement but denied the allegations, emphasizing that “there was no inappropriate behavior by Patrick Bruel towards the masseuse.” He also noted, “In Switzerland, it is common practice for prosecutors to propose a settlement for minor allegations.”

These allegations are not the first against Bruel. In 2019, several masseuses from various parts of France including Perpignan and Ajaccio made similar claims, leading to investigations regarding sexual harassment and exhibitionism. However, the Nanterre Prosecutor’s Office closed these investigations in December 2020 due to insufficient evidence.

Despite the closure of the investigation in France, the Paleo Festival decided to end its cooperation with Bruel citing the 2019 incident. “The respect and safety of our community are non-negotiable,” the festival emphasized in its statement. This decision was made shortly before Bruel’s upcoming tour scheduled to take place in Switzerland.

The allegations against Bruel once again raise questions about the responsibility of artists and organizers in response to such accusations. The future developments and the impact of this matter on Bruel’s career will be closely watched.