Gisèle Pelicot Reflects on Trauma and Resilience After Devastating Betrayal

Sun Feb 15 2026 00:51:20 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In an exclusive interview, Gisèle Pelicot shares her harrowing experience as a victim of systematic abuse and her journey toward healing after uncovering her husband's orchestrated rapes.

Gisèle Pelicot, at the center of one of France's most shocking rape trials, spoke to BBC Newsnight about the traumatic revelation of her husband's actions, her emotional resilience, and the long journey toward rebuilding her life. As she engages her children and seeks answers about their suffering, Ms. Pelicot emphasizes the power of sharing one's story and the support she has received from the community.

Gisèle Pelicot Reflects on Trauma and Resilience After Devastating Betrayal

In a candid interview with BBC Newsnight, Gisèle Pelicot opened up about her harrowing experience, revealing how her life took a devastating turn when she discovered that her husband had drugged her and arranged for numerous men to rape her over several years. Something exploded inside me; it was like a tsunami, she described, recalling the moment of revelation at the police station.

Pelicot, 73, has become a symbol of resilience following a widely publicized trial that has shaken France to its core. Describing her emotional journey after learning of her husband Dominique Pelicot's heinous acts, she faced the difficult challenge of informing her three children about their father's crimes. It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do, she said, reflecting on her daughter's painful reaction and her sons' concern for her well-being.

Despite the intense trauma and betrayal, Pelicot emphasized that she does not harbor anger towards her ex-husband, saying, I have neither hatred nor anger. Instead, she views her experience as a tragedy that fragmented their family but ultimately brought some healing as well.

Throughout the trial, Pelicot made the bold decision to waive her anonymity, stating she wanted to shine a light on her situation and inspire other victims. If I was able to do this, all victims can too, she affirmed, a testament to her strength and determination to reclaim her narrative. Her unwavering resolve sparked a movement of support across France, empowering other victims of sexual violence to come forward.

Looking ahead, Pelicot has started to rebuild her life, finding love and strength in a new relationship while continuing to seek answers from her past. While she reflects on her life with Dominique, she remains focused on healing and has expressed the need for a conversation with him about their daughter and the ongoing investigations surrounding his other alleged crimes.

As she continues her journey, Gisèle Pelicot stands as a powerful reminder of resilience against overwhelming odds and a beacon for change in the fight against sexual violence.