The highly anticipated trial of French actor Gerard Depardieu on charges of sexual assault has begun in Paris, with the star notably absent from the proceedings. Depardieu’s lawyer requested a delay citing the actor’s health issues, but the trial continued in his absence.
Depardieu, 75, is accused of attacking two women while filming the 2021 movie Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters), making explicit sexual remarks and aggressively “groping” members of the production team. If convicted, he could face up to five years in jail. The actor has vehemently denied the charges, stating in a letter last year that he has never “abused a woman.”
The trial marks a significant moment for France’s #MeToo movement, as Depardieu is one of the highest-profile figures in French cinema to face such accusations. The women involved have accused him of making sexual comments and physically assaulting them, while Depardieu’s lawyer has dismissed the allegations as false.
Since the allegations surfaced, Depardieu has faced additional accusations of sexual assault from more than a dozen other women. Despite this, he has received support from some members of France’s artistic community, who view the accusations as an attack on art itself.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s public support of Depardieu has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it undermines efforts to protect women from violence. Actress Léa Seydoux called Macron’s comments “crazy,” while Macron’s then-culture minister expressed intentions to investigate withdrawing Depardieu’s Legion d’Honneur honor.
As the trial unfolds, the spotlight remains on Depardieu and the broader implications for the #MeToo movement in France. Stay tuned for updates on this high-profile case.
