On the third day of his trial in Paris, the iconic French actor Gérard Depardieu stands accused of sexual assault, vehemently asserting his innocence while acknowledging the shifting cultural landscape around issues of sexual conduct.
Gérard Depardieu Faces Trial: The Actor Denies Sexual Assault Claims Amid Controversial Defense
Gérard Depardieu Faces Trial: The Actor Denies Sexual Assault Claims Amid Controversial Defense
In a combative court appearance, Depardieu confronts allegations while expressing discomfort with societal changes.
Gérard Depardieu is currently embroiled in a high-profile sexual assault trial in Paris where he faces allegations from two women, both of whom claim he touched them inappropriately during a film shoot in 2021. As the courtroom attended to its proceedings, Depardieu—now 76—acknowledged that his language and mannerisms from a bygone era are no longer viewed as acceptable. "Knowing the vulgarity of the old world, today I try to avoid being listened to by the new world – so that I don't come across as detestable," he told the court.
Despite admitting to using "rude" language, Depardieu flatly denied the allegations of sexual assault and asserted that any physical contact could have been accidental—an attempt to maintain balance rather than an expression of sexual intent. "I don't see how it could be fun feeling up a woman... I am not a metro-train groper," he stated emphatically.
The trial, which is expected to continue into the latter part of the week, has devolved into a combative affair with both sides exchanging heated remarks. His lawyer, Jérémie Assous, aggressively challenged the credibility of the plaintiffs, accusing them of being influenced by feminist movements to bring forth their allegations. Tensions peaked when questions arose about whether a hand on a buttock constituted sexual assault, igniting a fiery rebuttal from Depardieu's legal team.
The incidents in question reportedly took place while filming "Les Volets Verts" (The Green Shutters), a poignant narrative about an aging actor grappling with his declining notoriety. As the founders of the accusations took the stand, one recounting a disturbing encounter with Depardieu, the other described multiple alleged assaults. The defense attempted to undermine these testimonies by showcasing photos of Depardieu appearing jovial with the plaintiffs after the shoot. One plaintiff indicated she hadn't originally perceived the incidents as criminal, only coming forward two years later after hearing about other allegations against the actor in the media.
Depardieu was notably supported by a bodyguard throughout the trial and admitted to physical limitations due to obesity and joint issues, asserting that these challenges would have made it impossible for him to commit the acts he is being accused of.
As this trial unfolds, it presents a unique glimpse into the life of a once-revered icon of French cinema, as the public examines both his legacy and the evolving conversations surrounding sexual misconduct and accountability.
