Denmark's Queen Mary (54) met Gisèle Pelicot (73) in Fredensborg. The Royal House announced this in a post on Instagram. Accompanying images of the meeting, it states: "In 2024, French woman Gisèle Pelicot - guided by the conviction that 'shame must change sides' - insisted on making the trial related to France's largest case of assaults public." Pelicot's "shocking story and her courage to speak openly about it have left a deep impression on Her Majesty the Queen".
Equally impressive were "the stoic calm she demonstrated throughout the entire proceedings, as well as her dignified voice, which sparked a broad public debate about violence against women and contributed to a deeper understanding of this issue", the Danish Palace's post continues.
What Mary and Pelicot discussed
According to the Royal House, during the meeting between Queen Mary and Gisèle Pelicot in Fredensborg, the two women discussed, among other things, Pelicot's international bestseller - the autobiography "Une Hymne à la Vie" -, her life today, and how she has managed to use her public presence for the benefit of others.
The French woman became known worldwide in 2024 because she insisted that the trial against her husband and other defendants be held publicly. Pelicot's then-husband had repeatedly drugged and abused her for years and also had her assaulted by other men.
Camilla also met Gisèle Pelicot
In February, Queen Camilla (78) had also received Gisèle Pelicot at Clarence House, the London residence. The Palace published a photo of the two women at the time. Camilla had already established written contact with Pelicot in 2025, after the conclusion of the trial. In doing so, she honored the 73-year-old for her "courage" and stated: "I very much wanted to write to you to express my sincere admiration for the courage and dignity with which you have faced the terrible crimes that were committed against you."
Camilla also reportedly wrote to Pelicot that she "inspires women around the world" and "has created a powerful legacy that will forever change the narrative around shame".
