Gisèle Pelicot received the Diane von Furstenberg award on Thursday at the Venice Film Festival, known as the Mostra, appearing alongside American actress Jane Fonda.
Candice Mahout of TF1info's video newsroom covered the ceremony, describing the honor as a poignant distinction that recognizes Pelicot's courage in confronting violence against women.
Who is Gisèle Pelicot
Pelicot became known around the world after a trial that opened in Avignon, in which her former husband, Dominique Pelicot, was convicted of drugging her for years and recruiting dozens of other men to rape her while she was unconscious. In December 2024, Dominique Pelicot was sentenced to 20 years in prison, the maximum term for aggravated rape, alongside dozens of co-defendants also convicted in the case.
Pelicot waived her right to anonymity so that the trial could be held in public, a decision that turned her into a symbol of the fight against sexual violence. The case drew international attention and renewed debate in France over calls to add the notion of consent to the legal definition of rape.
Jane Fonda's embrace
The award ceremony came days after Fonda was seen embracing Pelicot at the Mostra. According to TF1info, Fonda told her she felt lucky to have met her.
Fonda is an American actress and longtime activist on women's rights and other social causes. She has won two Academy Awards during a film career spanning more than six decades.
The Diane von Furstenberg award
The prize takes its name from Diane von Furstenberg, the Belgian-American fashion designer best known for creating the wrap dress and for chairing the Council of Fashion Designers of America. She created the DVF Awards to honor women recognized for their courage and leadership in the face of adversity.
The Venice Film Festival
The Mostra was founded in 1932 and is part of the Venice Biennale, making it one of the world's oldest film festivals. Held each year on the Lido, it is one of the most prestigious events on the international film calendar and draws actors, directors and public figures from around the world.
