Gérard Depardieu in Court: A Tense Trial

Since March 24, Gérard Depardieu has been standing trial in the Paris Criminal Court for sexual assault on two women during the filming of Les Volets Verts in 2021. Already facing charges for rape and accused by more than twenty women of inappropriate behavior, the 76-year-old actor’s reputation has been tarnished by damaging testimonies.

An Assistant Director Testifies

On March 26, the third day of the trial, Sarah (a pseudonym), an assistant director on the film set, claimed to have been the victim of inappropriate actions on three occasions. First on the street, then on set, where the actor allegedly touched her chest and buttocks. When she expressed her refusal, he reportedly became insulting towards her. A psychiatric evaluation recognized her as having six days of total work incapacity.

In response to the accusations, Gérard Depardieu denies any wrongdoing and seems to struggle to understand what he’s being accused of: “By my own will, I wouldn’t touch someone’s buttocks like that, it doesn’t even cross my mind.” He also adds, “As a joke, I slap my friends’ buttocks, but I wouldn’t do that with a woman.”

Disturbing Statements

During the trial, the actor appeared to minimize the seriousness of the allegations, stating: “A hand on the buttocks is not a sexual assault.” He even claimed not to know what sexual assault was, causing bewilderment in the courtroom.

Other disturbing testimonies have added weight to the case. Amélie, the set decorator, shared her discomfort with Depardieu’s behavior, describing his “savagery” and the fear that paralyzed her during an altercation.

A Highly Anticipated Verdict

Gérard Depardieu faces up to five years in prison and a fine of 75,000 euros. Additionally, he remains under investigation for rape in another case, where the prosecution has requested his referral to a criminal court. The verdict in this trial is eagerly awaited and could mark a decisive turning point in the actor’s career.