Paris, France – As France navigates its own #MeToo movement and examines abuse and violence against women in the arts industry, renowned film star Gerard Depardieu faced trial in Paris last week on charges of sexual assault. The allegations stem from incidents that occurred on the set of the film Les Volets verts (The Green Shutters) in 2021.
During the trial, witnesses testified about their experiences with Depardieu, with one set decorator recounting how he trapped her and groped her, while an assistant director detailed multiple instances of inappropriate touching. Depardieu’s defense seemed to rely on his age and weight, claiming he was not physically capable of the alleged actions due to being 76 years old and weighing 330 lbs.
The actor’s demeanor in court was described as a mix of tragedy and farce, with his performance highlighting elements of toxic masculinity. Despite denying all charges, Depardieu’s courtroom behavior raised questions about his attitude towards the allegations and the #MeToo movement as a whole.
The trial included testimonies from multiple individuals who alleged similar instances of abuse by Depardieu. The prosecution requested an 18-month suspended prison sentence for the actor, who faces a maximum of five years in prison and a fine of up to €75,000 ($81,000) if convicted.
Depardieu’s trial is part of a larger reckoning within the French film industry, as more individuals come forward with allegations of sexual misconduct. The ongoing trial reflects a shift in the industry’s approach to addressing abuse and harassment that were previously overlooked or tolerated.
The impact of the #MeToo movement is evident in the changes implemented by organizations like the CNC to combat sexist and harassing behavior on film sets. As more survivors speak out and seek justice, the industry is being forced to confront long-standing issues of abuse and power dynamics.
The trial of Gerard Depardieu serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, where once-powerful figures are being held accountable for their actions. As the trial continues, it raises important questions about accountability, justice, and the ongoing efforts to create safe and equitable workplaces in the world of film and television.