PARIS — On Monday, French actor Gérard Depardieu appeared in a Parisian court to face charges of sexual assault against two women on a movie set. The case is being scrutinized as a significant moment for the #MeToo movement in France.
The 76-year-old actor stands accused of inappropriately touching a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant director during the 2021 filming of “Les Volets Verts” (“The Green Shutters”). Should the court find him guilty, Depardieu could face up to five years in prison alongside a fine of 75,000 euros ($81,000).
Depardieu has consistently maintained his innocence. As he briefly addressed reporters outside the courtroom, he mentioned, “I’m ok.” During the proceedings, he expressed readiness to respond to the court’s inquiries.
His lawyer, Jérémie Assous, conveyed confidence in their defense, stating to the media, “We will be able to show in an impartial, objective and incontestable manner that all of the accusations are lies.” He further added, “The truth will be obvious and the truth is on our side.”
This trial serves as a critical examination of France’s stance on addressing sexual violence, particularly within the film industry. Depardieu, a beloved figure in French cinema and nominated for an Oscar in 1991, has been accused of misconduct by over 20 women over the years. Although many cases did not progress due to insufficient evidence or statutes of limitations, this particular case has reached the courts.
Feminist and historian Florence Montreynaud, positioning this trial as a milestone for women’s rights, participated in a demonstration outside the courthouse. As protesters voiced their concerns with chants and music, Montreynaud commented to French broadcaster BFMTV about the changing mindset post-#MeToo.
This trial follows the precedent set by Gisèle Pelicot’s case, which highlighted sexual violence in France. Pelicot’s openness in bringing her case to public attention aimed to shift the onus of shame away from victims.
Despite its global impact, France initially resisted the #MeToo wave, with critics arguing that it conflicted with French cultural values like flirtation and free expression. Unlike Hollywood’s swift response, the French film sector was slower in tackling allegations against powerful men.
At the time of these alleged assaults, Depardieu was also under scrutiny for a 2018 rape accusation by actor Charlotte Arnould. That investigation is ongoing, with a trial request in progress.
According to the prosecution, Depardieu is alleged to have restrained the set dresser with his legs while groping her waist and chest in front of witnesses, complemented by inappropriate language, necessitating intervention by bodyguards. The assistant director claims similar misconduct occurred on set and in public.
The courtroom saw both alleged victims seated together. The court has withheld their names due to privacy rights, as is customary unless individuals express otherwise.
The trial, expected to extend over several days, awaits a verdict post-hearing. Initially scheduled for October, it was postponed due to Depardieu’s health issues, including heart surgery and diabetes. A court medical expert confirmed his fitness to stand trial, advising the sessions remain within six hours with scheduled breaks.
In court, Depardieu refrained from testifying and let his lawyer articulate his defense, questioning the integrity of witness testimonies and the police investigation without providing substantive evidence.
A poignant moment unfolded when one of the plaintiffs broke down in tears as her lawyer relayed her account of the alleged assault. The emotional support was evident as her fellow accuser comforted her.
The plaintiffs’ legal representatives plan to present their evidence in due course. One attorney, Carine Durrieu Diebolt, noted that Depardieu had previously apologized to her client at the time, questioning why an apology would occur if no wrongdoing had taken place.
Further, four additional women purportedly assaulted by Depardieu are expected to provide testimony.
In response to the allegations, Depardieu penned an open letter in October 2023, vehemently denying the assault of any woman.
Despite the controversy, Depardieu remains an established figure within the film industry with supporters like actors Vincent Perez and Fanny Ardant present in the courtroom.