Gérard Depardieu, the French movie star, has been found guilty of sexually assaulting two women on the set of a movie he starred in. The incident took place during the filming of “Les Volets Verts” (“The Green Shutters”) in 2021. As a result, a Paris court has handed him an 18-month suspended prison sentence and a fine of 29,040 euros. Additionally, the court has ordered that he be registered in the national sex offender database. This case has been seen as a crucial test for how French society and its film industry handle allegations of sexual misconduct involving well-known individuals.
Charged with alleged rape and sexual assault from a 2018 case, Depardieu has denied all accusations against him. Despite not attending the hearing in Paris, his lawyer has stated that he will appeal the decision. The set dresser’s lawyer, Carine Durrieu Diebolt, expressed that the verdict is a triumph for the two women involved and serves as a milestone in ending impunity for artists in the film industry. The case has shed light on the issue of sexual abuse and misconduct in the world of cinema, particularly as the Cannes Film Festival unfolds.
Accused by more than 20 women, Depardieu’s long career, boasting over 250 films, has solidified his status as a French movie giant. Despite the allegations, only the sexual assault case has progressed to court, with some other cases being dismissed due to lack of evidence or statute of limitations. During the trial, Depardieu refuted the accusations, claiming that his actions were not of a sexual nature. However, the court found his explanations unconvincing, emphasizing the consistency and credibility of the accusers’ testimonies. The judges denounced the aggressive defense strategy employed, which aimed to discredit the plaintiffs.
The two accusers detailed their experiences in court, recounting instances of groping and inappropriate behavior by Depardieu. The set dresser described being pincered between the actor’s legs and subjected to unwanted touching, while the assistant reported incidents of groping on multiple occasions. Both women stood firm in their accounts, despite facing a hostile defense strategy. Following the verdict, one of the plaintiffs expressed relief and satisfaction, viewing the decision as a step towards achieving justice. Despite expressions of support from some individuals in the French cinema world, Depardieu may face additional legal challenges in the future, including a rape accusation from 2018.
As a prominent figure in French cinema for over five decades, Depardieu’s reputation has been tarnished by these allegations. Known for his versatility and commanding presence on screen, he has faced renewed scrutiny in recent years for his behavior towards women. The actor’s past controversies, including making obscene remarks during a trip to North Korea, have further fueled the debate surrounding his conduct. As the industry grapples with issues of sexual misconduct, Depardieu’s case serves as a cautionary tale for those in positions of power.