French actor Gérard Depardieu is currently facing trial in Paris for alleged s*xual assaults that could potentially result in a five-year prison sentence.
The 76-year-old actor has been charged with s*xually assaulting two women on the set of the 2021 film “Les Volets Verts” (“The Green Shutters”). He stands accused of groping a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant director.
If convicted, Depardieu could face up to five years in prison and a fine of €75,000 (approximately $81,000). The actor has consistently denied any wrongdoing, expressing his willingness to answer the court’s questions.
“We will be able to demonstrate in an impartial, objective, and incontestable manner that all of the accusations are false,” his attorney, Jérémie Assous, stated to reporters outside the courtroom. “The truth will be clear, and we stand firmly on the side of the truth.”
Depardieu’s illustrious career has been marred by scandals, with over 20 women having accused him of misconduct, either through public allegations or formal complaints. However, this is the only case that has progressed to trial; others were dismissed due to a lack of evidence or were barred by the statute of limitations.
Feminist historian Florence Montreynaud referred to Depardieu’s court appearance as “a historic moment” for women’s rights, joining other activists in protests outside the courthouse. A group of demonstrators chanted, “S*xist violence, complicit judicial system,” while dancing to techno music.
“Times are changing. #MeToo has made a significant impact. Finally, attitudes are shifting,” Montreynaud told French broadcaster BFMTV.
The trial follows the landmark case from last year involving Gisèle Pelicot, whose courage in speaking out drew attention to the issue of s*xual violence in France. Pelicot advocated for a public trial involving 51 men accused of a horrific series of abuses, arguing that making the case public would shift the stigma surrounding such actions.
