French actor Gérard Depardieu's delayed trial looms large
Gérard Depardieu, the well-known French actor, will face trial in connection with allegations of sexual assault against two women. The trial, which was scheduled to start in the fall of 2024, was postponed due to the actor's health condition.
In October of last year, Gérard Depardieu's trial was delayed because of his poor health. The actor did not appear in court, causing the proceedings to be postponed. Now, Depardieu must respond to charges related to sexual assaults.
Main accusations against Depardieu
The 76-year-old actor is accused of sexual assaults on a film set in 2021. The alleged victims are a 34-year-old assistant director and a 54-year-old set designer. Depardieu denies the accusations, claiming they are part of a smear campaign.
In April of last year, Depardieu was detained by police in Paris. He was questioned in connection with the allegations of sexual assault involving the production of "Les Volets Verts" by Jean Becker.
Demonstrations outside the court
Before the trial commenced, dozens of people gathered outside the court to demonstrate in support of sexual assault victims. They chanted slogans supporting the victims and condemning the perpetrators. This is Depardieu’s first trial on such charges, despite similar accusations arising in the past.
The trial, which will last three days, concerns incidents on the set of the film "The Green Shutters." One of the accusing women was a set designer, and the other was a production assistant. Their identities remain undisclosed. Carine Durrieu-Diabolt, the lawyer for one of the women, emphasizes that her client was afraid to accuse the actor due to his stature in the film industry.
What awaits the actor?
If convicted, Gérard Depardieu faces up to five years in prison and a fine of approximately $81,000. The actor, who gained international fame through over 200 films, has faced numerous allegations of sexual assault in recent years.
In the fall of 2023, Depardieu denied the accusations in an open letter published in "Le Figaro." His lawyer claims the charges are unfounded. The trial is widely discussed in the media, and its outcome may have a significant impact on the actor's future career.
Controversies surrounding the actor
Depardieu is the subject of six separate cases, including two related to rape. Altogether, more than 20 women have accused him of sexual violence or sexist remarks. Some of the cases were dismissed due to the statute of limitations.
The actor maintains his innocence. His lawyer claims that Depardieu is the victim of false accusations. The trial is to be limited to six hours a day, with breaks possible.
