Paris Court to Rule on Depardieu Sex Assault Case

A Paris court is poised to deliver its verdict on Tuesday in the sexual assault trial of French cinema legend Gerard Depardieu, a case that has captivated the nation for weeks. As this ruling coincides with the commencement of the Cannes Film Festival, it is anticipated to be a significant point of discussion on the opening day of one of cinema’s premier events. Depardieu, renowned for his roles in over 200 films and television series, stands as the most prominent figure ensnared in France’s response to the #MeToo movement.

Approximately 20 women have accused Depardieu of inappropriate behavior, but this is the first instance where the allegations have proceeded to trial. The current case revolves around charges of sexual assault during the filming of ‘Les Volets Verts’ (‘The Green Shutters’) in 2021, directed by Jean Becker. Nearly two months following the high-profile trial, the Paris Criminal Court will announce its verdict at 10:00 am (0800 GMT) on Tuesday. The plaintiffs include a 54-year-old set dresser, Amelie, and a 34-year-old assistant director, both accusing the actor of sexual assault. Only Amelie is expected to be present to hear the verdict, while Depardieu, now 76, might not attend.

Despite his legal troubles, Depardieu is set to star in a film directed by his friend, actor Fanny Ardant, with shooting of his scenes having begun in April in the Azores. In March, lead prosecutor Laurent Guy recommended an 18-month suspended jail sentence for Depardieu, asserting that the assaults reported by the two women were ‘intentional.’ Guy also suggested that Depardieu should undergo psychological treatment and be added to France’s sex offender registry. Amelie testified that Depardieu behaved like a ‘wild animal’ on set, making obscene remarks and boasting about his ability to ‘give women an orgasm without touching them.’ Depardieu has denied the allegations, admitting to being vulgar and foul-mouthed but maintaining that he does not engage in physical assault.

Throughout the trial, Depardieu has been supported by his daughter Roxane, ex-partner Karine Silla, actor Vincent Perez, and longtime friend Ardant, who testified in his favor. However, the defense’s approach has been heavily criticized. Depardieu’s lawyer, Jeremie Assous, labeled the two women ’liars’ and ‘hysterical,’ accusing them of promoting ‘rabid feminism.’ Claude Vincent, the assistant director’s lawyer, described the defense strategy as an ‘apology for sexism.’ Nearly 200 French lawyers urged the judiciary to combat courtroom sexism, stating that Depardieu’s legal team had employed sexism and misogyny to discredit the plaintiffs.

Depardieu is also facing another case following a rape complaint filed by actor Charlotte Arnould. Prosecutors have requested a trial. In April, French MPs condemned ’endemic’ abuse in the entertainment industry after a six-month inquiry. Depardieu rose to stardom in France during the 1980s with roles in ‘The Last Metro,’ ‘Police,’ and ‘Cyrano de Bergerac,’ and later gained international recognition with films like ‘Green Card,’ ‘Hamlet,’ ‘Life of Pi,’ and the Netflix series ‘Marseille.’

The verdict in this case will undoubtedly have significant implications for the #MeToo movement in France and beyond. As the entertainment industry continues to grapple with issues of sexual misconduct and power dynamics, the outcome of this trial could serve as a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for accountability and justice. It is crucial that the legal system handles this case with the utmost integrity, ensuring that the voices of the victims are heard and that justice is served. The entertainment industry must also take this opportunity to reflect on its own practices and work towards creating a safer and more equitable environment for all its members.