Laurent Vallet, Head of France’s INA, Resigns After Cocaine Purchase Scandal (2025 Update)

• Who is Laurent Vallet and What Led to His Downfall?
• How Does This Impact France’s Cultural Institutions?
• What’s Next for INA?
• Public and Industry Reactions: Shock, Disappointment, and Dark Jokes
• FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

In a shocking turn of events, Laurent Vallet, the director of France's National Audiovisual Institute (INA), has officially resigned following his suspension over allegations of purchasing cocaine. The scandal, which broke earlier this year, has sent ripples through France's cultural and media sectors. Vallet, who had led the prestigious institution since 2021, was seen as a key figure in preserving France's audiovisual heritage. His abrupt departure raises questions about the future of INA and its role in media archiving. Below, we unpack the timeline, implications, and reactions to this high-profile resignation.

Who is Laurent Vallet and What Led to His Downfall?

Laurent Vallet wasn’t just another bureaucrat—he was a heavyweight in France’s media preservation scene. Appointed in 2021, he oversaw INA’s vast archives of French radio and television history. But his tenure came crashing down in early 2025 when reports surfaced of his involvement in purchasing cocaine. The French Ministry of Culture swiftly suspended him pending investigation. While details remain scarce (French authorities are notoriously tight-lipped about ongoing cases), insiders suggest the incident occurred during a private gathering in late 2024. Vallet’s resignation on August 30, 2025, marks the end of a once-promising career derailed by personal misconduct.

How Does This Impact France’s Cultural Institutions?

INA isn’t just any organization—it’s the guardian of France’s audiovisual memory, from vintage newsreels to iconic talk shows. Vallet’s scandal couldn’t have come at a worse time. The institution is already grappling with digitization challenges and budget cuts. Culture Minister Rachida Dati (never one to mince words) called the incident “a betrayal of public trust” during a press conference. Meanwhile, archivists worry this distraction might delay critical projects, like preserving early 2000s digital content before it degrades. “It’s a mess,” admits Claire Dubois, a veteran INA researcher. “Morale is low, and we’re stuck answering questions about cocaine instead of focusing on saving France’s media legacy.”

What’s Next for INA?

With Vallet gone, INA’s board faces a tough decision: appoint a SAFE interim leader or use this crisis to redefine the institute’s direction. Names like documentary producer Élodie Renard and digital archivist Marc Lefèvre are circulating as potential successors. The bigger challenge? Restoring credibility. INA relies on government funding and partnerships with broadcasters—both of which could waver if the scandal lingers. On the bright side, some analysts argue this could force much-needed reforms. “INA’s been stuck in analog thinking,” says media expert Jean-Luc Moreau. “A fresh start might finally push them into the 21st century.”

Public and Industry Reactions: Shock, Disappointment, and Dark Jokes

French Twitter had a field day with #CocaINA puns, but the mood among professionals is grim. Filmmakers who relied on INA’s archives for historical footage express concern about access delays. Meanwhile, Vallet’s former colleagues describe a mix of anger and pity. “He was brilliant at securing funding,” one anonymous staffer admits, “but clearly had demons.” The scandal also reignited debates about drug policies in France’s elite circles—especially after a 2024 report showed cocaine use doubling among Paris executives since 2020. As for Vallet? He’s vanished from public view, leaving only a terse resignation letter citing “personal reasons.”

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

What exactly did Laurent Vallet do?

Vallet was suspended after evidence emerged of him purchasing cocaine, though the circumstances (quantity, location, etc.) remain undisclosed due to France’s strict privacy laws.

Will INA’s operations be affected?

Short-term disruptions are likely, especially in leadership-dependent projects. However, INA’s day-to-day archival work continues under deputy director Sophie Marceau (no relation to the actress).

Has Vallet faced legal consequences?

As of August 2025, no charges have been publicly filed. French drug cases often take years to prosecute, especially involving high-profile figures.