French Actor Gerard Depardieu Faces Trial Over Sexual Assault Allegations
French actor Gerard Depardieu, 75, is the highest-profile figure to face accusations in French cinema’s version of the #MeToo movement, triggered in 2017 by allegations against US producer Harvey Weinstein. He will stand trial on October 28 for sexually assaulting two women and faces separate charges of rape and numerous further criminal complaints.
Accusations and Trial
Depardieu’s lawyer, Mr. Jeremy Assous, has announced that the actor "plans to appear before the court" on October 28 to be tried over alleged sexual violence during a 2021 film shoot. The names of the two women have not been made public. One of the accusers, a 55-year-old set dresser, reported that she suffered sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexist insults while filming director Jean Becker’s "Les Volet Verts" (The Green Shutters) at a private house in Paris.
Defence and Rebuttals
Assous has accused the plaintiff of attempting to "make money" by claiming €30,000 (S$42,000) in compensation. He claims that Depardieu’s defense will offer "witnesses and evidence that will show he has simply been targeted by false accusations."
Additional Allegations and Accusers
Around 20 women have now accused Depardieu of various sexual offenses. Actor Charlotte Arnould was the first to file a criminal complaint. An investigation is also under way in Paris after a former production assistant accused Depardieu of a 2014 sexual assault. Spanish writer and journalist Ruth Baza has also accused Depardieu of raping her in 1995.
Reactions and Criticisms
President Emmanuel Macron sparked outrage among feminists by complaining of a "manhunt" targeting Depardieu, who he called a "towering actor" who "makes France proud." Macron’s remarks followed the broadcast of a recording of Depardieu making repeated misogynist and insulting remarks about women.
Consequences for French Cinema’s #MeToo Movement
Depardieu is the most famous figure to face accusations in French cinema’s #MeToo movement. Directors Jacques Doillon and Benoit Jacquot are among other major figures accused of sexual violence, highlighting the widespread problem of sexual harassment and assault in the French film industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Gerard Depardieu?
A: Gerard Depardieu is a French actor who has faced numerous accusations of sexual assault and harassment.
Q: What are the allegations against Depardieu?
A: Depardieu is accused of sexually assaulting two women during a film shoot in 2021.
Q: When is Depardieu’s trial scheduled?
A: Depardieu’s trial is scheduled for October 28.
Q: How many women have accused Depardieu of sexual offenses?
A: Around 20 women have accused Depardieu of various sexual offenses.