PARIS — Acclaimed French actor Gérard Depardieu is set to appear in a criminal court in Paris on Monday due to accusations of sexually assaulting two women during the filming of “Les Volets verts” (The Green Shutters) in 2021.
Depardieu has consistently denied the allegations against him, which include claims of employing “violence, coercion, surprise, or threat.” Prosecutors allege that he assaulted both women by trapping them between his legs and groping their bodies over their clothing.
As France grapples with issues surrounding sexual violence, especially in the entertainment industry post-#MeToo movement, this trial marks a significant moment of accountability. Prosecutors have indicated that witnesses from the film set could provide important testimonies.
Among the alleged victims is a 53-year-old production designer. Although her identity is generally protected in such cases, her lawyer declined to comment on this specific incident. She recounted to investigators having heard sexual comments from Depardieu before an encounter where he allegedly grabbed her and groped her while making inappropriate remarks. Witnesses confirmed her struggles to escape his grip and reported that she appeared visibly shocked, leading to a psychiatrist deeming her in need of a week away from work.
Although there was an arrangement for Depardieu to apologize, the victim recounted in a recent TV interview that he reacted with anger, blaming her for the trouble. Witnesses corroborated that his statements did not reflect a genuine apology.
In her interview with a French online news platform, the production designer, who appeared on camera using her first name only, discussed the significant impact of the alleged assault on her mental health and career over the past year and a half. She described experiencing sleepless nights, anxiety attacks, and noticeable weight loss due to the stress of the situation.
She also mentioned that it took her some time to report the incident, motivated by a news story claiming there had been no misconduct during the filming.
Just a month prior to her encounter with Depardieu, another crew member voiced complaints against him. A director’s assistant claimed he had inappropriately touched her on multiple occasions. After expressing her discomfort, she faced insults from him as well, resulting in her receiving a six-day psychiatric leave.
Jérémie Assous, Depardieu’s attorney, asserted in a written statement that the evidence and witnesses presented will affirm that his client is the victim of unfounded accusations. The timeline for the court’s decision remains unclear.
Despite the serious allegations, Depardieu still enjoys support from various figures, including President Emmanuel Macron. Late last year, a collective of 56 individuals from the French film industry released a statement defending the actor, claimin that attacks on him are reflections of broader attacks on cinema itself.
This statement followed a broadcast by France 2 that showcased stories from 16 women accusing Depardieu of sexual misconduct, including footage of him behaving inappropriately during a trip to North Korea, where he made suggestive remarks in front of women, one of whom was a young girl.
In 2021, he was formally charged with rape and sexual assault after prosecutors reopened a case related to earlier claims made by actor Charlotte Arnould.
Depardieu has regarded himself as innocent, asserting in a letter to Le Figaro that he has “never, ever abused a woman.” Although once celebrated as a national icon in France and a notable figure in global cinema, his reputation has faced increasing scrutiny amid these allegations.
Earlier this year, actress Judith Godrèche urged the French film industry to confront the realities of sexual violence, sharing her own story of abuse by prominent filmmakers in her youth. This further ignited discussions about accountability in the industry.
Moreover, the recent trial of 50 men accused of drugging and raping a female victim has sparked widespread protests across France, showing an increased demand for transparency and justice regarding sexual violence.
Ahead of Monday’s hearings, feminist advocacy groups are expected to organize a protest outside the courthouse, signaling continued outrage and call for reform in response to these serious issues.