A second female gang rape victim dies days after the controversial death of another woman from the same low-caste group.

PARIS: A rape investigation targeting a prominent French pornography website is prompting actresses to disclose their experiences of abuse, a moment of reckoning for an industry where speaking out has long been taboo.

Prosecutors said last month that Jacquie and Michel, which bills itself as a hub for “amateur” porn videos, and other sites had been under investigation since July after feminist groups collected testimonies from several women.

Actresses warned that users should be aware that the concept of “amateur” porn is a misnomer and belies the experiences that performers may have had to endure.

“Those who might be tempted need to know that they abuse women,” Estelle, who asked that her real name not be published, said.

She is one of a few dozen women, according to lawyers and women’s groups, who contacted lawyers after the inquiry was opened.

Estelle said she was 22 when she set her sights on becoming a “star” for France’s leading porn production company, Dorcel.

Unable to get a break, she started making videos with smaller producers, many of which were shown on Jacquie and Michel. The experience turned into a nightmare. One director forced her to accept certain scenes – despite her objections – that left her in intense pain for several days.

“They pay you hardly anything for doing scenes you’ve never said ‘yes’ to,” Estelle said.

Other women spoke about directors who suddenly demanded additional sex acts they had not been warned about in advance.

Adult film actress Marion Lew, 32, said: “The legal system has a very difficult time recognising sexual assault.”

Many women hope to force Jacquie and Michel and other sites to remove their videos, arguing that they were unaware that they would be available permanently.

Jacquie and Michel has denied any wrongdoing, saying it only distributes films and is not responsible for how they are made.

“We’re at the beginning of a #MeToo moment for pornography,” said Celine Piques, of the Osez le Feminisme! (Dare Feminism) collective.

But others remain sceptical.

“Some are starting to speak out, but it’s not easy,” said Nikita Bellucci, one of France’s most prominent porn film stars.

“None of them have been contacted or publicly supported by the industry. Since they act in porn videos, people say they have no right to present themselves as rape victims.”