Matthias Schoenaerts Receives Six-Month Prison Sentence
Matthias Schoenaerts, known for his roles in films like Rust and Bone and The Old Guard, has received a six-month prison sentence due to driving offenses. This news was reported by the Belgian news agency Belga.
Details of the Sentence
According to reports, Schoenaerts was sentenced in absentia after he failed to appear in a Belgian court. The ruling stems from two incidents in 2024 involving the operation of a motorbike without a valid license. This was despite a previous ban related to a 2021 driving offense.
- Sentence: Six months in prison
- Fine: €4,000
- New Driving Ban: One year
Background Information
Schoenaerts has a troubling history with driving offenses, having been convicted 11 times. In addition to the recent ruling, reports indicate he was stopped by police in Pelt, Belgium, just last month. During this encounter, he reportedly did not possess a valid license, refused a breath test, and exhibited aggressive behavior when his vehicle was towed.
Future Implications
A spokesperson for the court, Luc De Cleir, stated that it is unlikely Schoenaerts will serve the prison sentence. However, he has the option to appeal the ruling. This situation adds to the scrutiny surrounding the actor’s driving record.
The Actor’s Career
Matthias Schoenaerts is one of Belgium’s most recognized actors on an international scale. His breakthrough performance came with the 2011 Oscar-nominated film Bullhead. He has since appeared in numerous films including:
- Rust and Bone
- The Danish Girl
- Red Sparrow
- Far From The Madding Crowd
- The Old Guard
In 2024, he is slated to portray the villain in the upcoming DC Supergirl movie. El-Balad has reached out to the Beringen court and Schoenaerts’ representatives for further comments regarding his recent legal troubles.
