French actor Gérard Depardieu has testified for the first time in his landmark trial in Paris, where he faces allegations of groping two women on a 2021 movie set. The 76-year-old actor denied the sexual assault charges against him, saying his behavior can sometimes be boorish.
Depardieu acknowledged using vulgar language and grabbing a woman’s hips during an on-set argument about art, but claimed it was not ill-intentioned. He said he was “constantly making remarks about women” on set, including comments about their attire, but maintained that these were not part of the alleged assault.
One of the accusers, a 54-year-old set dresser, testified that Depardieu had grabbed her and made obscene remarks during filming. She also claimed that he told producers they were hiring an “abuser”.
Depardieu’s defense team has argued that his behavior was not predatory, but rather a result of his “Russian” nature, which he believes is due to drinking or vulgarity. The actor faces up to five years in prison and a fine of €75,000 ($81,000) if convicted.
The trial is seen as an important test of France’s willingness to confront sexual violence and hold influential men accountable. Depardieu’s case has sparked debate about the #MeToo movement and its impact on the French film industry.
Source: https://www.france24.com/en/culture/20250325-french-actor-d%C3%A9pardieu-denies-charges-at-sex-assault-trial-says-i-have-russian-nature