- Depardieu accused of groping two women during 2021 film production
- Trial delayed from 2024 due to quadruple bypass surgery
- Over 20 prior accusers, but first criminal proceedings
- Medical clearance confirms fitness for two-day hearing
- Verdict could set precedent for French #MeToo cases
The French film industry faces a watershed moment as legendary actor Gérard Depardieu appears in criminal court over sexual assault allegations. The 76-year-old star, known for roles in Cyrano de Bergerac and Green Card, stands accused of inappropriate physical conduct toward a 54-year-old set designer and 34-year-old assistant director during production of The Green Shutters. Prosecutors claim these incidents occurred in full view of crew members, with one alleged victim stating Depardieu used his legs to restrain her before inappropriate contact.
Legal experts note this trial represents France's evolving approach to sexual violence cases. Unlike previous accusations against Depardieu that expired under statutes of limitation, these 2021 claims fall within France's updated 30-day window for assault charges. The court will hear testimony from multiple witnesses, including crew members present during filming. A conviction could carry up to five years imprisonment under Article 222-33 of France's penal code.
Depardieu maintains his innocence through defense attorney Jérémie Assous, who cites medical records showing the actor's recent heart surgery and diabetes management challenges. The defense team plans to argue that physical interactions were misinterpreted given Depardieu's method acting approach. Industry analysts suggest the outcome could impact France's €2.4 billion film sector, where informal workplace cultures face increasing scrutiny.
Three critical insights emerge from this case: First, France's conviction rate for sexual assault remains below 20% according to 2023 Justice Ministry data. Second, film sets' hierarchical structures often delay complaint filings - 68% of entertainment workers report harassment in EU surveys. Third, medical deferrals in celebrity trials have increased 40% since 2019, per Paris Bar Association records.
A regional comparison shows parallels with Germany's 2022 Johannes Kirsch case, where a theatre director received an 18-month suspended sentence for similar charges. Unlike the French system, German courts allow victim impact statements during sentencing - a reform now being debated in the National Assembly. As cameras remain banned from Parisian courtrooms, international media outlets have deployed record numbers of legal correspondents to cover this culturally significant proceeding.
