French actor Gérard Depardieu stands trial in Paris over sexual assault allegations

French actor Gérard Depardieu faced trial in Paris on Monday on charges of sexually assaulting two women on a movie set, in a case that has captured the attention of the #MeToo movement in France.

Depardieu, 76, is accused of groping a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant director during the filming of Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters) in 2021. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison and a 75,000 euros fine.

The actor denies any wrongdoing and his lawyer, Jérémie Assous, confidently stated that they would prove the accusations to be lies. The trial is expected to last at least two days, with more time possible if needed. A verdict will be reached at a later date.

The courtroom was filled with supporters and accusers alike. Actresses Charlotte Arnould, who accused Depardieu of raping her in 2018, and Anouk Grinberg, who has criticized his behavior, were present to follow the proceedings. More than 20 women have publicly accused Depardieu of misconduct in the past, but this is the first case to go to trial.

The prosecution alleges that Depardieu trapped the set dresser with his legs and groped her in front of witnesses. The assistant director claimed that she was also groped by Depardieu both on set and in public. The women, whose identities are protected, sat side by side in court.

France has had a complicated relationship with the #MeToo movement, with some viewing it as incompatible with French culture. However, recent cases like that of Gisèle Pelicot and Adèle Haenel have shown a shift towards holding powerful men accountable for their actions.

Depardieu, a towering figure in French cinema, has been accused by multiple women in the past. However, this is the first time he is facing trial for sexual assault allegations. The trial has drawn attention from women’s rights activists, who demonstrated outside the courthouse.

Despite his health issues, including a quadruple heart bypass and diabetes, Depardieu has been deemed fit to stand trial. His lawyer has stated that they will prove his innocence and show that the accusations are unfounded.

The trial will continue in the coming days, with more witnesses expected to testify. The outcome of the case will have significant implications for the #MeToo movement in France and could potentially set a precedent for holding powerful men accountable for their actions.