French actor Gérard Depardieu faced a Paris courtroom on March 24, 2025, to answer allegations of sexual assault brought forth by two women who worked with him on the set of the film "Les Volets Verts" (The Green Shutters), in 2021. The presence of a large police contingent was noticed outside the courthouse, where dozens of demonstrators gathered, chanting: "Victims, we believe you; rapists, we see you." This trial represents a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about misconduct within the film industry, particularly in the wake of the #MeToo movement.
On this first day of trial, Depardieu, dressed in black suit and trainers, appeared alongside his attorney, Jérémie Assous, who characterized the proceedings as a 'flawed manhunt' against a revered figure in French cinema. Assous's remarks suggest that the accusations against his client are part of a conspiracy to bring down the actor, described as a 'sacred monster' of French film. “Today, a complaint for sexual violence atomizes you; it kills you socially,” stated Assous, pointing to the serious consequences allegations like these carry for one's reputation.
The charges against Depardieu stem from the alleged sexual assault of Amélie K., a 54-year-old set decorator, and Engela W., a 34-year-old assistant director, during filming in southern France. According to Amélie K., the incident occurred on September 10, 2021, during which she claims Depardieu grabbed her and made unwanted physical contact while making crude comments. She described the experience as feeling like being in a 'wolf trap' amid a hostile environment.
Engela W. accused Depardieu of sexual assault that took place on August 31, 2021, alleging he touched her buttocks in the street and her breasts a few days later on location. After these incidents, she lodged a formal complaint on March 21, 2024. Both women’s testimonies are central to the prosecution’s case.
Depardieu, asserting his innocence, stated in court, "I am not a person who would grope in the metro" and insisted that he never intended to harass anyone. He claimed that any physical interaction was misinterpreted, saying that the moment Amélie K. described involved him merely ensuring she did not slip while passing his position. Additionally, he declared, "Truth is on our side," expressing confidence in his defense.
The most recent allegations form a part of a troubling backdrop for Depardieu, who has faced accusations of sexual misconduct from over 20 women, however none had led to court proceedings prior to this case. In the past, a report by the French investigative outlet Médiapart highlighted claims from 13 women regarding inappropriate behavior, and the actor has been indicted for separate allegations of rape and sexual assault filed by actress Charlotte Arnould in 2018.
The trial is expected to last for two days, with scheduled breaks to accommodate Depardieu’s health condition—he has undergone major surgeries in the past, which have raised concerns about his fitness to stand trial, but a medical assessment affirmed his ability to continue.
As Depardieu navigates through this legal storm, the societal implications of the trial are significant. The #MeToo movement has empowered many survivors of sexual assault to come forward, as evident in the growing number of accusations against high-profile figures in various industries. Should Depardieu be found guilty, he could face up to five years in prison and a fine of €75,000 (£63,000).
Beyond its legal ramifications, this trial holds a mirror to the culture of sexual misconduct that has long plagued not just the film industry but many facets of society. Public sentiments were palpable outside the courthouse, reflecting a community ready to support victims against powerful predators.
In conclusion, the proceedings against Gérard Depardieu are not just about the fate of a prominent figure in French cinema; they underscore a pivotal moment in the fight against gender-based violence and the cultural shift instigated by the #MeToo movement. As the court deliberates in the coming days, the outcome will reverberate through the artistic community and beyond, influencing dialogues on accountability and justice in cases of sexual harassment and assault.
