Canal+ chief Maxime Saada vows to stop supporting anti-Bolloré signatories

Canal+ chief Maxime Saada announced on Monday that the channel will cease supporting the signatories of a recent anti‑Bolloré petition. The statement follows the publication of a text denouncing Vincent Bolloré's influence over French cinema, which was signed by 600 film industry figures last week. The petition described a perceived takeover of the French film sector by Vincent Bolloré and called for greater independence. The list of signatories includes a broad cross‑section of directors, producers and actors who expressed concern about the current power dynamics. Speaking on France Inter, Saada said, “I have a certain feeling of waste,” referring to the fallout from the petition. He added that Canal+ would no longer provide financial or promotional backing to those who signed the document. The president of the Centre national du cinéma (CNC) expressed regret over Saada’s reaction during the same broadcast. He warned that the decision could undermine the solidarity among French cinema professionals. The exchange highlights growing tension between media conglomerates and the French film community over Bolloré’s role. Both parties underscored the importance of preserving artistic freedom while acknowledging the commercial realities of the industry. Observers will watch how Canal+’s withdrawal of support affects the signatories and whether the CNC will intervene further. Further comments from the involved organisations are expected in the coming days.