Home / Arts and Entertainment / Jagger Joins Star Petition Against Media Grip
Jagger Joins Star Petition Against Media Grip
22 May
Summary
- Thousands signed petition against Canal+ 'far-right grip'.
- Canal+ CEO refuses to work with petition signatories.
- Concerns over media consolidation and political influence.
An escalating dispute surrounding Canal+ and its shareholder has become a defining off-screen drama at the festival. A petition, initially launched by 600 French film professionals, has surged to over 3,500 signatures.
International figures such as Mick Jagger, Javier Bardem, Mark Ruffalo, and Ken Loach have lent their names to the cause. They express alarm over what they describe as a tightening 'far-right grip' on the industry.
The petition criticizes the expanding influence of Bolloré and Canal+'s proposed acquisition of a 34% stake in cinema giant UGC. This move is seen by signatories as a risk to film financing and distribution.
Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada's statement at the festival, refusing to work with signatories he accused of calling him a 'crypto-fascist,' has further fueled the controversy. The situation highlights concerns about media consolidation and its potential political implications.
