Gérard Depardieu: dozens of celebrities denounce ‘lynching’ of French actor
GuardianDEC 2023
Gerard Depardieu Found Guilty of Sexual Assault in Paris Court
Above: French actor, Gerard Depardieu, leaves during a suspension of hearing as part of his trial in which he is accused of sexually assaulting two women on March 24, 2025, in Paris, France. Image copyright: Chesnot/Contributor/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The verdict represents a crucial victory for victims of sexual violence and marks the end of impunity for powerful figures like Depardieu in the French entertainment industry. This landmark decision proves that artistic genius cannot excuse criminal behavior, and sends a clear message that sexual assault will be punished regardless of the perpetrator's status or contributions to culture.
Narrative B
This case has turned into a witch hunt that disregards the presumption of innocence and threatens to erase the legacy of one of France's greatest actors. The prosecution relied heavily on testimony without physical evidence, while ignoring Depardieu's consistent denials and decades of professional conduct. This verdict sets a dangerous precedent where media pressure can override proper judicial process.
Narrative C
The Depardieu verdict has become more than a legal outcome — it’s a mirror reflecting a divided France. On one side, a generational shift demanding accountability for sexual violence; on the other, defenders of cultural icons fearing the loss of artistic legacy. This case exposes the nation's struggle to reconcile justice with its deep reverence for artistic genius.