Trial of Gérard Depardieu Begins in Paris
The highly publicized trial of French actor Gérard Depardieu commenced today in Paris, where he faces allegations of sexual assault involving two women during the filming of Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters) in 2021. Depardieu, aged 75, has consistently denied any wrongdoing and maintains his innocence.
The charges against him include accusations of using “violence, coercion, surprise or threat” to carry out the alleged assaults. Notably, it was announced that Depardieu would not be present in the courtroom due to health issues, which has sparked mixed reactions.
According to prosecutors, both victims reported incidents where the actor allegedly trapped them between his legs and groped various parts of their bodies, including their buttocks, genitals, chest, and breasts, all over their clothing. One of the victims is a 53-year-old production designer, and prosecutors revealed that three witnesses observed the incident. These witnesses confirmed that the victim attempted to escape Depardieu’s grasp and appeared visibly “shocked” by the encounter.
Following the incidents, an arrangement was made for Depardieu to issue an apology. However, during a recent television interview, one of the victims claimed that the actor reacted with anger, blaming her for the situation. Prosecutors stated that witnesses corroborated that Depardieu’s comments did not constitute a genuine apology.
Jérémie Assous, Depardieu’s lawyer, expressed to the Associated Press that “the witnesses and evidence that (Depardieu) will present will clearly demonstrate that he is the target of false accusations.” It remains uncertain when the court will reach a verdict. If convicted, Depardieu could face a prison sentence of up to five years.
This trial unfolds amid France’s ongoing struggle to confront issues of sexual violence, particularly in the wake of the #MeToo movement, which has faced challenges gaining traction within the film industry.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, many supporters have rallied behind Depardieu, including prominent figures such as French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron referred to the actor as “the pride of France,” a statement that ignited backlash from activists who argue that such comments undermine the vital efforts to safeguard women from violence.
In a display of solidarity, late last year, 56 individuals from the French entertainment sector—including performers, writers, and producers—published an essay defending Depardieu. They contended that when “Gérard Depardieu is targeted in this manner, it is the art (of cinema) that is being attacked.” This defense came shortly after national broadcaster France 2 aired a documentary featuring allegations of sexual misconduct from 16 women against the actor, showcasing his inappropriate remarks and actions during a 2018 visit to North Korea.
Depardieu was formally charged in 2021 with rape and sexual assault after officials revived a 2018 investigation that had previously been closed, stemming from allegations made by actress Charlotte Arnould. In an open letter published in the newspaper Le Figaro, Depardieu asserted, “I have never, ever abused a woman.”
In anticipation of the trial, feminist groups have organized a protest outside the courthouse to advocate against sexual violence and to stand in solidarity with the victims.
