Chef Jean Imbert Faces Allegations of Domestic Violence from Former Partners
Four women, including an actress and a prominent artist, accuse the acclaimed chef of a pattern of abusive behavior.
Jean Imbert, the celebrated French chef known for winning the culinary competition Top Chef and replacing Alain Ducasse at the Plaza Athénée in Paris, is facing serious allegations of domestic violence from four former partners.
According to a report published on April 23, 2025, by a French magazine, the allegations include claims of repeated patterns of denigration, control, and excessive jealousy.
The women accusing Imbert include his most recent partner, referred to as Zoé, Kelly Santos, an artist and director of the funding foundation for the Garde républicaine, actress Lila Salet, and a woman identified as Éléonore.
Each of their accounts describes a progression from seemingly perfect relationships to toxic environments characterized by jealousy and emotional abuse.
Notably, Éléonore alleges that during filming for a television show, she was subjected to a headbutt from Imbert, resulting in a fractured nose.
In response, Imbert's communication team described the incident as occurring during a moment of violence directed at him, asserting that he was being physically restrained by Éléonore and that he ultimately regretted the consequences of the event for her.
For Zoé, the communication team indicated that there were ‘reciprocal dysfunctions’ which they argued had soured the final days of their relationship.
In terms of allegations from Kelly Santos, it was stated that Imbert vehemently denies any claims of insults, asserting that he has often complimented her.
Regarding Lila Salet, his team refuted allegations that he insulted her during their relationship.
Imbert's culinary career has seen significant milestones, including the opening of his restaurant on January 5, 2022, and his recent recognition with a Michelin star for the Palme d’Or at the Hôtel Martinez in Cannes.
The allegations have prompted discussions within the culinary and entertainment sectors about the potential implications for Imbert's professional standing.
According to a report published on April 23, 2025, by a French magazine, the allegations include claims of repeated patterns of denigration, control, and excessive jealousy.
The women accusing Imbert include his most recent partner, referred to as Zoé, Kelly Santos, an artist and director of the funding foundation for the Garde républicaine, actress Lila Salet, and a woman identified as Éléonore.
Each of their accounts describes a progression from seemingly perfect relationships to toxic environments characterized by jealousy and emotional abuse.
Notably, Éléonore alleges that during filming for a television show, she was subjected to a headbutt from Imbert, resulting in a fractured nose.
In response, Imbert's communication team described the incident as occurring during a moment of violence directed at him, asserting that he was being physically restrained by Éléonore and that he ultimately regretted the consequences of the event for her.
For Zoé, the communication team indicated that there were ‘reciprocal dysfunctions’ which they argued had soured the final days of their relationship.
In terms of allegations from Kelly Santos, it was stated that Imbert vehemently denies any claims of insults, asserting that he has often complimented her.
Regarding Lila Salet, his team refuted allegations that he insulted her during their relationship.
Imbert's culinary career has seen significant milestones, including the opening of his restaurant on January 5, 2022, and his recent recognition with a Michelin star for the Palme d’Or at the Hôtel Martinez in Cannes.
The allegations have prompted discussions within the culinary and entertainment sectors about the potential implications for Imbert's professional standing.
