Kick Criticizes French Authorities Over Streamer's Death Investigation

Streaming platform Kick has accused French authorities of politicizing the death of content creator Raphaël Graven, known online as Jean Pormanove, who passed away during a live stream. Graven was found dead in a residence near Nice last week. French prosecutors have initiated an investigation into the Australian-based video platform, with government minister Clara Chappaz stating the state would take Kick to court to "stop the damage caused by the content involved in this tragedy."

Kick responded, stating, "This is not about creator safety, customer safety, or the well-being of the industry, but rather a politicized narrative that takes advantage of a tragic personal loss." The platform also expressed disappointment that the media were informed of the minister's actions before they were.

Graven was known for videos featuring apparent violence and humiliation. The Paris prosecutor's investigation aims to determine whether Kick knowingly broadcast "videos of deliberate attacks on personal integrity." Kick clarified that Graven died during a "typical" livestream and that, according to prior statements by Graven and other participants, their content was "pre-planned and scripted." The platform stated that Graven passed away in bed during the stream and has since removed content showing his death. Kick has suspended all related accounts pending investigation and is cooperating fully with authorities, including law enforcement, the regulatory body Arcom, and Minister Chappaz's office.