Culture

Actor Depardieu Faces Sexual Assault Trial in French Court

MAR 24 2025·Updated MAR 25 2025

Story

Above: Gerard Depardieu at Cinema Paris on Jan. 12, 2023, in Berlin, Germany. Image credit: Tristar Media/Contributor/Getty Images Entertainment via Getty Images

The Facts

French actor Gerard Depardieu, 76, is standing trial in Paris on Monday on charges of sexually assaulting two women during the filming of "Les Volets Verts" in 2021. This is the first time he faces court proceedings among accusations from about 20 women.
The Associated Press
ABC
A 54-year-old set dresser has accused him of sexual assault, while a 34-year-old assistant director alleges Depardieu groped her on the film set.
Dw.Com
Lemonde
Actor Anouk Grinberg, who appeared in the film, has supported the two plaintiffs, claiming that Depardieu made constant "salacious remarks" during the shooting. However, Depardieu maintains his innocence.
Dw.Com
Lemonde
The trial, initially scheduled for October 2024, was postponed due to Depardieu's health issues, including diabetes and a quadruple heart bypass. It will now proceed with six-hour daily limits and scheduled breaks.
Anews
guardian
If convicted, Depardieu faces up to five years in prison and a fine of €75,000 ($81,600). The trial is expected to last two days, and no immediate verdict is anticipated.
Anews
Dw.Com
CNN
Depardieu remains under separate investigation for allegedly raping actress Charlotte Arnould in 2018, a case for which prosecutors have requested a trial.
The Press Democrat
ABC

Sources Split

LEFT

CENTER

RIGHT

ESTAB
CRIT

CENTER

PRO
ESTAB

The Spin

Narrative A

The French film industry has been too slow to address sexual misconduct, particularly when involving influential figures, allowing actors like Depardieu to act without fear of consequences. A conviction would convey that such behavior is no longer acceptable.

EuroNews

Times of India Blog

Narrative B

The allegations against Depardieu are unfounded and lack any direct witnesses. This situation represents an unjust media campaign against a legendary actor who has already been deemed guilty in the court of public opinion.

Le Figaro