PARIS — Gérard Depardieu, one of France’s most well-known actors, is set to appear in a Paris courtroom on Monday facing allegations from two women who accuse him of sexual assault during the filming of the movie “Les Volets Verts” (“The Green Shutters”) in 2021. This case not only casts a spotlight on Depardieu but also on France’s handling of sexual violence, particularly when perpetrated by high-profile individuals.
Depardieu, at age 76, has been accused of assaulting a set dresser and an assistant director. More than 20 women have publicly alleged sexual misconduct by him, yet this is the first case being tried in court. It is a significant post-#MeToo trial in France, highlighting whether the nation, known for its artistic culture, will hold influential individuals accountable.
According to prosecutors, Depardieu allegedly trapped one of the women with his legs and groped her in the presence of witnesses. In an interview, the set dresser recounted how Depardieu behaved inappropriately on set by making lewd comments and had to be physically removed by bodyguards. Another woman, an assistant director, claimed she was also groped both on set and publicly. The identities of the plaintiffs are being kept confidential to protect victims of sexual violence.
Depardieu has publicly denied all claims against him. An open letter in Le Figaro in October 2023 quotes him stating, “Never have I abused a woman.” He claims that any actions were simply a result of being overly affectionate and generous, not malicious. His lawyer termed the accusations unfounded, noting that Depardieu plans to attend the trial, with necessary health accommodations due to his recent quadruple bypass surgery.
France has been criticized for being slow to embrace the #MeToo movement compared to other countries, particularly the U.S. In France, cultural figures like Roman Polanski, despite being convicted and accused of various offenses, continue to enjoy substantial careers and recognition. The reluctance of the French film industry to hold such figures accountable underscores a persistent issue.
Notable figures in France have begun to speak out more against this culture. Actress Adèle Haenel became a prominent voice after director Christophe Ruggia was convicted for abusing her during her childhood. Judith Godrèche has also emerged as an advocate, publicly accusing directors of exploitation and pushing for legislative changes to better protect minors in the arts.
Interestingly, the industry has seen little institutional reform despite these public cases. There remains a cultural tension between maintaining traditional French values of flirtation and acknowledging movements like #MeToo, which aim to address and rectify systemic abuse and harassment.
Anouk Grinberg, an actor who worked with Depardieu, has voiced support for the women accusing him, criticizing the behavior she witnessed on set as inappropriate and shameful. Depardieu’s past also shadows the current trial; he is currently under investigation for a separate rape allegation dating back to 2018, with prosecutors pushing for it to go to trial next.
Despite a long and distinguished career in over 200 films, Depardieu’s reputation has repeatedly been tarnished by controversies, including drunk driving and disorderly conduct. The scrutiny of his behavior intensified following a documentary that highlighted past indiscretions, reviving public debate about influential figures facing little consequence for their actions.
There is ongoing debate within France about balancing the preservation of cultural identity with addressing misconduct allegations. Figures like Godrèche advocate for legal changes and protection for the vulnerable in the arts, highlighting a need to confront systemic issues within the industry. However, resistance remains, as seen in past public letters defending traditional cultural liberties, underscoring the national tension between tradition and reform.