French television host Matthieu Delormeau was arrested on February 25, 2025, after being caught buying cocaine during a police operation in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. This latest incident marks another chapter of legal troubles for the 50-year-old star, who had previously faced similar charges.
Delormeau was apprehended by agents from the BAC (Brigade anticriminalité) who were surveilling a drug dealer when they witnessed the transaction take place. Upon his arrest, he was found with two grams of cocaine.
A few hours after his arrest, Delormeau was released, but he is expected to face fines through judicial orders as part of the legal proceedings against him. This is not the first time Delormeau has encountered issues with drug use; he was previously arrested on July 1, 2024, under similar circumstances.
During the earlier incident, police had spotted Delormeau interacting with a dealer but did not find any narcotics on him at the time. Instead, they seized cash and issued Delormeau a therapeutic injunction, indicating his need for treatment for drug use. He had expressed his desire to reclaim his former life, indicating the impact of substance use on his personal and professional well-being.
Reflecting on his drug use during police questioning, he remarked, "It was sporadic, it was twice a year, it was recreational... Afterward, everything went catastrophically for everyone." His admission sheds light on the struggles he has faced as he navigates the pressures of fame and personal challenges.
The trend of cocaine use is concerning, with approximately 1.1 million people reported to have used the drug at least once over the past year, according to the French Observatory for Drugs and Drug Addiction (OFDT). This figure highlights the increasing prevalence of cocaine among the population, underlining the need for greater awareness and preventative measures.
Delormeau's repeated brushes with the law have elicited varied responses, particularly from his colleagues and the public. Capucine Anav, among others, has defended him, arguing for empathy and support rather than judgment. The conversation around celebrities facing legal issues related to substance use often raises questions about accountability and public perception.
With the legal repercussions looming and public scrutiny growing, it remains to be seen how Delormeau will handle the fallout from his most recent arrest. His ability to navigate this personal crisis and the support he receives may shape his future both on and off-screen.