Probe launched after death of online streamer 'on live broadcast' - 'Absolute horror'

A French online star known for carrying out extreme challenges has died (Image: Instagram)

An investigation has been launched following the death of a French streamer. Raphael Graven, known online as Jean Pormanove or JP, died on Monday in the village of Contes. The Nice prosecutors' office will handle the investigation to determine the cause of his death, and has ordered an autopsy.

The 46-year-old built up a following on the platform Kick for his shocking livestreams, which saw him "humiliated and mistreated" by two other men. Graven was in an accommodation rented specifically to livestream from, and had been broadcasting for 10 days at the time of his death, France24 reports. His viewers had reportedly become concerned for his wellbeing after seeing him lying on a mattress, unresponsive to their comments.

Raphael Graven had reportedly been streaming for 10 days when he died. (Image: -)

French digital technology minister Clara Chappaz called the death of Graven an "absolute horror". She wrote on X: "The death of Jean Pormanove and the violence he endured are an absolute horror. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.

"Jean Pormanove was humiliated and mistreated for months live on the Kick platform. A judicial investigation is underway.

"I have referred the matter to Arcom and made a report on Pharos. I have also contacted the platform's management to obtain explanations.

"The responsibility of online platforms regarding the dissemination of illicit content is not optional: it is the law. This type of failure can lead to the worst and has no place in France, Europe, or anywhere else."

Graven gained a following for doing extreme challenges and suffering abuse. (Image: -)

Graven and the men he livestreamed with raised money from viewers, either through subscriptions or one-off donations.

By the time his final stream had ended, the fundraising counter suggested he had collected over €36,000 (£31,000).

A Kick spokesperson said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jean Pormanove and extend our condolences to his family, friends and community.

"We are urgently reviewing the circumstances and engaging with relevant stakeholders to investigate the situation.

"Kick’s community guidelines are designed to protect creators, and we remain committed to upholding these standards across our platform."