Gérard Miller Faces Growing Accusations Of Sexual Violence

Gérard Miller, a prominent psychoanalyst and media personality in France, finds himself at the center of a storm of accusations involving sexual violence, following a series of investigations and testimonies that have surfaced over the past year. Born in 1948, Miller has built a reputation over decades as a public intellectual, often appearing on television and writing columns that showcase his views on various societal issues. However, this reputation is now overshadowed by serious allegations of sexual assault and rape that have emerged from multiple women.

The initial spark for these allegations came in January 2024, when Elle magazine published an investigation by journalists Cécile Ollivier and Alice Augustin. This article contained testimonies from several women who accused Miller of sexual assaults and rape during hypnosis sessions. Following this publication, the magazine was inundated with additional testimonies, indicating a troubling pattern of behavior. In response to the accusations, Miller acknowledged having had "unequal" but "consented" relationships, a statement that many have interpreted as an attempt to downplay the gravity of the allegations.

As the investigation unfolded, it became clear that Miller's alleged misconduct was not limited to his professional life. Reports emerged detailing how he had targeted students at Paris-8 University, where he directed the psychoanalysis department. According to Alice Augustin, he would often ask female students to stay after class under the pretense of discussing ideas, only to make advances towards them. This behavior, described as predatory, was reportedly well-known among his colleagues, yet little was done to intervene.

Witnesses on television sets where Miller frequently appeared also reported seeing him engage in flirtatious behavior with young women in the audience. Technicians and production assistants recounted observing him chatting with girls in the front rows before or during breaks in filming. Despite these observations, many remained silent, perhaps due to the culture of complicity that often surrounds figures of authority in the entertainment industry.

Further revelations came with the publication of the book Anatomie d'une prédation by Augustin and Ollivier, which delves deeper into the accusations against Miller. The book recounts testimonies from nearly 80 women, many of whom describe experiences of manipulation and coercion. Some of these incidents are said to date back to the early 2000s, and while many of the alleged acts are now beyond the statute of limitations, the sheer volume of accusations paints a disturbing picture of Miller's conduct.

Among the more alarming allegations is that of Narjess, who claims to have been raped by Miller during a hypnosis session at Club Med in Hammamet, Tunisia, when she was just 15 years old. This particular case highlights the vulnerability of young women whom Miller allegedly targeted, often using his professional status to gain their trust.

Miller's personal life has also come under scrutiny, with reports indicating that some of the women he allegedly assaulted were close to his partner, Anaïs Feuillette. This includes former babysitters and friends of the family, suggesting a troubling pattern of predation within his social circles.

In a recent statement, Miller expressed frustration over his inability to defend himself against the allegations, claiming ignorance of the details surrounding the complaints lodged against him. He stated, "I have no information on the complaints that would target me, and I cannot defend myself: I do not have access to the file, I do not even know which investigative service is seized, nor how many complaints have been filed against me." This lack of transparency has only fueled public interest and concern regarding the unfolding situation.

As the investigation continues, Miller's status as a respected figure in French media and psychoanalysis is rapidly deteriorating. His past positions, including his recognition with the Order of Merit in 1993, now seem to be overshadowed by the gravity of the allegations against him. Critics have pointed out the irony in Miller's past condemnations of others accused of similar misconduct, such as his public outrage over the handling of a sexual assault case involving a government minister.

The broader implications of Miller's case resonate with ongoing discussions about power dynamics, consent, and the treatment of women in both professional and personal contexts. Many are calling for a reevaluation of how society handles allegations of sexual misconduct, particularly when they involve figures who have historically wielded significant influence.

As more women come forward and share their stories, the question remains: how many more voices will be heard in the wake of this scandal? The allegations against Miller serve as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding issues of consent and the responsibilities that come with power. With nearly 30 women alleging misconduct, the need for accountability and justice in such cases has never been more urgent.

For now, Gérard Miller remains a figure of controversy, his legacy tarnished by the accusations that continue to surface. As the investigation progresses, the hope is that those who have suffered in silence will find the courage to speak out, and that justice will ultimately prevail.