French actor Gérard Depardieu has appeared in court on trial for allegedly sexually assaulting two women during a film shoot in 2021. The 76-year-old actor is facing charges of sexual assault, with prosecutors arguing that he used obscene language and physically trapped one of the victims before grabbing her body parts. Depardieu denies all charges, but his lawyers have failed to convince the court to dismiss the case.
Depardieu’s trial marks a significant moment in the #MeToo movement, as it is the highest-profile figure in the French film industry to face allegations of sexual assault since the movement gained momentum. The actor has made over 200 films and TV series throughout his career, but this trial will determine whether he faces serious consequences for his alleged actions.
The two women who accused Depardieu are set to testify during the trial, with one woman claiming that she was physically trapped between Depardieu’s legs before being subjected to unwanted touching. The other woman has also spoken out about being touched inappropriately on set and in public.
Depardieu’s lawyers have argued that the investigation into his alleged actions is biased and aimed solely at “bringing him down”, but the court has rejected these claims. Medical experts have ruled that Depardieu is fit to stand trial, despite concerns over his health due to a heart condition and diabetes.
The trial continues, with many awaiting the outcome of this high-profile case.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/mar/24/gerard-depardieu-paris-court-trial-sexual-assault-charges