Celebrity French Chef Jean Imbert Accused of Domestic Violence

Renowned French chef Jean Imbert, known for leading the kitchens at prestigious establishments like the Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris and Martinez in Cannes, faces serious allegations of domestic violence. Several women have accused the celebrity chef, popularizing after winning the TV competition 'Top Chef' in 2012, of mistreatment, prompting a judicial investigation.

Imbert, 45, was questioned by authorities for over 30 hours. The prosecution has accused him of "everyday violence" against two women. Following this, he was presented to a judge who granted him the status of an assisted witness, a step preceding a formal indictment. Imbert was released after being held in police custody since Monday.

His legal team asserts that Imbert denies the accusations and rejects the media's portrayal of events. The chef has been under scrutiny for over a year, following initial media reports detailing testimonies from four former partners. These earlier accusations, concerning psychological and physical abuse allegedly occurring in 2013 and 2021, include claims from former Miss France Alexandra Rosenfeld and actress Lila Salet. However, these specific incidents are not part of the current prosecution as they are considered time-barred.

The current investigation focuses on the testimonies of two other former partners who have chosen to remain anonymous. They allege assaults that took place between December 2023 and November 2024. Following earlier public accusations, the Plaza Athénée removed Imbert from his restaurant's directorship, though he reportedly remained on the payroll as "artistic director."