Two prominent actresses associated with the popular French series Clem, Lucie Lucas and Victoria Abril, are embroiled in a deepening feud as accusations and counter-accusations threaten to overshadow their careers. The conflict ignited over the holidays when, on December 25, 2023, Abril signed an open letter supporting actor Gérard Depardieu, who faced serious allegations of sexual assault. The letter, which gathered around fifty signatures, drew strong reactions, particularly from Lucas.
Lucas took to Instagram to express her outrage, writing, "You want to talk about your numerous aggressions, including sexual ones, against your partners? Thinking it over, I'm not surprised you signed this crap... You’re worried too, and thinking it over, you’re right to be." These harsh words underscored the gravity of their situation.
After this public confrontation, Abril, who starred as Caroline on Clem, announced her intention to file a complaint against Lucas, stirring the pot even more. The ensuing drama was clear as both actresses became increasingly entrenched in their positions.
Fast forward to March 30, 2024, during the RTL program On refait la télé, Agustin Galiana, who played Clem's half-brother on the series, expressed his distress over the fallout between the two stars. He remarked on the sensitivity and dedication of Lucas and revealed his hope for reconciliation, stating, "I love them both and have worked with them for so long, I hope they can resolve this." Sadly, Galiana's optimism seems misplaced, as over time, both Lucas and Abril indicated the depths of their estrangement.
On February 22, 2025, shortly before the airing of Clem's 14th season, Lucas reflected on the incident and her feelings. "If I had to do it again, I would, but not like this," she admitted, recognizing her impulsive initial reaction. She emphasized the seriousness of the issues at stake, asserting, "But I think Victoria and I are irreconcilable." This statement encapsulated the stark reality of their fractured relationship.
Their differences extend beyond personal attacks; they highlight larger social issues involving gender-based violence and the treatment of women within the industry. Lucas's previous comments, particularly her accusation labeling Abril as 'a degenerate boomer', have put both actresses firmly at odds. The intense media coverage surrounding their dispute has drawn significant public interest, sparking discussions about the portrayal and treatment of women, both on and off screen.
Lucas described her regret over the wording of her accusations but remains firm on the sentiment behind them, reflecting the emotional turmoil she has experienced. "It upset me to damage those links," she explained, emphasizing her concern about the potential repercussions within the industry as well as for their personal lives.
Despite her feelings, Lucas attempted to negotiate peace between them. She revealed, "I proposed mediation. She refused. She wanted me to apologize, and I felt I couldn’t." The refusal of dialogue from Abril highlighted the unwillingness on both sides to bridge the gap formed by their fiery statements.
With tensions at such high levels, any collaboration between the two seems impossible. Lucas frankly noted, “It would have been either her or me on set.” Such comments underline how deep their rift has grown—so much so it genuinely threatens the fabric of their professional commitments.
Reflecting on her relationship with the audience, Lucas spoke tearfully about the connection she has cultivated over 15 years through Clem. "The only thing that's important is this exchange with the public. The thousands of messages we receive, the people we meet... This series means so much to them," she stated.
At this point, both actresses have become symbols of broader issues surrounding allegations of misconduct and the realities faced by women standing against powerful figures. The audience remains divided; many support Lucas for voicing her truth, others still respect Abril’s legacy and contributions to the industry. The conflict is not just personal; it's emblematic of the challenges many face when confronting societal norms and expectations.
Moving forward, as Clem returns to TV screens, one wonders how this conflict might influence the narrative direction of the series and the broader conversation about women's rights and responsibilities. While both actresses have taken firm stances, the ripples from this feud will likely continue to affect their careers and collaborations for many years to come.