Bedbug Infestation Leads to Temporary Closure of Paris Cinematheque

Post by : Raina Nasser

Paris, November 29, 2025 – The renowned Cinematheque Française, a cornerstone of Parisian cinema, is set to close its screening rooms for one month following reports of a bedbug infestation that impacted attendees, particularly those at a masterclass led by Oscar-nominee Sigourney Weaver.

Starting this Friday, the closure will encompass all four screening rooms, including those used for public viewings and educational programs. The measure aims to restore a safe and pleasant atmosphere for all visitors.

The issue reportedly surfaced in early November, when audience members shared their experiences of being bitten by bedbugs while attending Weaver’s session. An attendee recounted to Le Parisien seeing bedbugs crawl on the seats and on people’s clothing, leading to considerable alarm and distress.

In line with a comprehensive pest control strategy, the Cinematheque will dismantle all seats to treat them individually using dry steam heated to 180°C. Carpets will undergo similar in-depth cleansing, augmented by the use of specially trained dogs to confirm that no bedbugs are present.

While the screening rooms close, other areas of the Cinematheque, including the current exhibition focusing on US actor and director Orson Welles, will remain accessible to the public.

Bedbugs are notorious for nesting in mattresses, clothing, and luggage, often causing uncomfortable rashes, blisters, and intense itching. The stress and sleep disturbances they inflict can also lead to anxiety and mental health repercussions.

In response to rising bedbug issues in public places, including transport systems, cinemas, and hospitals, France has enacted significant measures, particularly as the government flags an increase in infestations in anticipation of the 2024 Paris Olympics. Officials have also pointed out the role of misleading information circulating on foreign-linked social media accounts in escalating public fears.

The proactive closure of the Cinematheque Française showcases the institution’s dedication to ensuring visitor safety while tackling the increasing public problem of bedbug infestations in major urban centers.