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Besson accused of rape

Fifth Element director denies allegation

by Amber Wilkinson

Besson in Locarno in 2014
Besson in Locarno in 2014 Photo: Richard Mowe

French director Luc Besson has been accused of rape by an actress.

Police are investigating the allegation, which was filed in Paris on Friday.

The Associated French Press news agency reported that the Valerian director's lawyer said: "Luc Besson categorically denies these fantasist accusations.

"[The complainant] is someone he knows, towards whom he has never behaved inappropriately."

Four-times married Besson, 59, is one of France's best known modern directors, having helmed films including The Fifth Element, Lucy and Subway. He is currently married to producer Virginie Besson-Silla.

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