Patrick Bruel

Following 48 hours in police custody, the Paris prosecutor's office requested his formal indictment and pretrial detention on charges of sexual violence involving nine women, including five alleged crimes.

Popular French singer and actor Patrick Bruel was taken into police custody as part of an investigation into alleged rape and sexual assault involving at least 13 women.

The singer was placed in police custody on Monday June 8 in Paris in connection with a sexual violence investigation involving 13 alleged victims, following Mediapart's initial revelations three months ago.

Bruel cancelled all upcoming stage dates including his Paris theatre production and festival tours, prompting widespread disappointment among ticket holders.

The singer faces eight criminal complaints for rape and sexual assault, has had his Paris theatre performances cancelled following feminist protests, and his business empire including a luxury hotel and vineyard is now under pressure.