Gérard Depardieu Faces Court Over Allegations of Sexual Assault

After years of allegations, Gérard Depardieu's trial marks a significant moment for the #MeToo movement in France.

In a landmark moment on March 24, 2025, celebrated French actor Gérard Depardieu appeared in a Paris court facing serious charges related to sexual assault. The accusations stem from incidents involving two women employed on the set of his 2022 film, "Les Volets Verts," directed by Jean Becker.

This trial represents the first occasion where Depardieu must publicly defend himself against prolonged allegations, including groping and harassment, which he has consistently denied. The charges were brought to light after the women filed police complaints asserting that Depardieu had assaulted them by inappropriately touching their intimate areas. Should he be convicted, the actor could potentially face a five-year prison sentence along with a substantial fine of approximately €75,000 (about $81,000).

Depardieu has categorically refuted all claims against him, with his attorney, Jérémie Assous, labeling the allegations as "totally false and unrealistic." The trial, initially scheduled for October of the previous year, was postponed due to Depardieu's health issues. His lawyer presented medical documentation indicating that he suffers from longstanding diabetes and heart ailments, worsened by the anxiety surrounding the charges.

For many observers, this case signifies a turning point for the #MeToo movement within France, particularly vital for the film sector, which has faced scrutiny for delaying justice in such matters.