Adèle Haenel to Focus on Activism Rather than Returning to Cinema
The actress Adèle Haenel will be turning her attention to activism “for a world in which all childhoods are possible, all childhoods are protected and livable, shielded from violence, bombs, and rape.”
In an interview, Haenel discussed being sexually assaulted by director Christophe Ruggia when she was between 12 and 14 years old. She expressed that she wants to focus on all children who are currently suffering and stressed the importance of societal transformation for healing.
Regarding a potential return to cinema, Haenel emphasized her commitment to theater and criticized an industry that perpetuates harmful narratives. She highlighted the normalization of cruelty, racism, and sexism in films, stating that she does not want to contribute to it.
These statements come in the wake of a parliamentary report on “systemic” violence in French cinema and performing arts, providing further context to Haenel’s decision to prioritize social justice advocacy over acting.
