Renowned Disney and Pixar Animator Bolhem Bouchiba Accused of Shocking Crimes in France

In a case that has shocked both the animation industry and the public, celebrated animator Bolhem Bouchiba, known for his contributions to Disney and Pixar classics, is facing serious charges of sexual abuse and child trafficking in France. The accusations paint a troubling portrait of an individual whose contributions to beloved family films are now overshadowed by alleged heinous acts.

According to Le Figaro and reported by Cartoon Brew, Bouchiba has been under investigation by Europol since 2019. Authorities became suspicious of funds he regularly transferred to the Philippines. French prosecutors allege these funds were used to finance live-streamed abuse, where he reportedly orchestrated and participated in the exploitation of young children. The investigation suggests that Bouchiba directed the abuse, which reportedly affected hundreds of children aged between three and 15.

Bouchiba, a name not widely recognized outside animation circles, has had a significant influence on several of Disney and Pixar’s most popular films. Having worked for both studios since the 1990s, he brought to life some of the most iconic characters and scenes. He was a lead animator for Hades in Disney’s Hercules, helped animate Tarzan, and later contributed to Pixar’s The Incredibles. His most recent project, Elemental, was released earlier this year. Bouchiba also left his mark on DreamWorks Animation, working on sequences in How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, as well as contributing to the Oscar-winning animated short Dear Basketball, written by Kobe Bryant.

Bouchiba’s case, however, carries additional disturbing details. In 2019, he was convicted for the sexual assault of his then-partner’s eight-year-old daughter and received a two-year suspended sentence. It remains unclear how widely this conviction was known within the animation industry, but it appears not to have impacted his career significantly.

Following these new charges, Bouchiba faces trial in France, which is expected to last until the end of October. The accused animator could face a sentence of up to 40 years if convicted. This case has reignited discussions on the responsibility of studios to conduct rigorous background checks on employees and to take swift action when serious offenses come to light.

The allegations surrounding Bouchiba have stunned fans and colleagues alike, serving as a stark reminder that an artist’s professional achievements can sometimes conceal dark and unsettling truths.