Gérard Depardieu, the 76-year-old French actor, has denied all sexual assault allegations as he stands trial in Paris. He faces accusations from two women regarding harassment during the filming of ‘Les volets verts’ in 2021. Depardieu claims his actions were misconstrued, while the plaintiffs describe his behavior as aggressive. The trial, postponed due to health issues, highlights ongoing legal troubles for Depardieu, who faces numerous allegations, including rape. If convicted, he could face significant penalties.
Gérard Depardieu Weighs In On Sexual Assault Allegations
Renowned French actor Gérard Depardieu, aged 76, has firmly rejected all allegations of sexual assault as he stands trial for the first time. Speaking before a Paris court, he questioned, “Why would I ever grope women or touch their breasts or buttocks?” He continued, asserting, “I am not a frottage in the metro,” a term used to describe individuals who derive sexual pleasure from rubbing against others, as reported by the French newspaper ‘Le Monde.’
A Closer Look at the Allegations
The acclaimed actor faces accusations from two women regarding sexual harassment during the filming of ‘Les volets verts’ in 2021. Depardieu recounted his version of events from September 10, 2021, claiming he merely touched the hips of a 54-year-old set designer to prevent slipping in a moment of frustration. “It was a hot and humid Friday. We had a disagreement about set decoration, and I was angry,” he stated, defending his actions.
In stark contrast, the plaintiff painted a different narrative, describing Depardieu’s behavior as aggressive and inappropriate. According to her testimony, he made lewd comments about women and their clothing. “He gestured and growled on set, and it was far from gentlemanly,” she testified, recalling how he forcefully pulled her towards him and groped her amidst a heated discussion about the set.
Furthermore, it was reported that Depardieu made vulgar remarks, including an inappropriate comment about an umbrella, which he claims were taken out of context. He dismissed the seriousness of his comments, suggesting they were merely humorous. During the trial, he also expressed criticism towards the MeToo movement, suggesting it has contributed to his legal troubles, stating, “This movement will become a terror.”
When questioned by the judge about the delay in the plaintiff’s complaint, she shared her feelings of humiliation and confusion about categorizing her experience as sexual harassment. “I didn’t want to talk about it; I felt humiliated,” she explained, emphasizing her professional success and the fear that speaking out could jeopardize her career.
This trial is not the only legal issue Depardieu faces, with around 20 women publicly accusing him of various forms of abuse, including two allegations of rape. Several cases have been dismissed due to statutes of limitations. The first complaint was filed by actress Charlotte Arnould in 2018. In August 2024, the Paris prosecutor’s office requested a trial on charges of rape and sexual coercion, pending a decision from an investigating judge.
Depardieu’s courtroom was not devoid of support, as several individuals, including actress Fanny Ardant and his family members, were present. The trial commenced on Monday and faced postponement due to the actor’s health concerns, with a new date set for October 2024.
If found guilty, Depardieu could face a sentence of up to five years in prison and a hefty fine of 75,000 euros. In an open letter released in October 2023, he reiterated, “I have never abused a woman,” acknowledging his provocative and exuberant nature but firmly stating, “but never a rapist.”