Gérard Depardieu faces sexual assault trial in Paris over alleged incidents during 2021 film shoot

French actor Gérard Depardieu is on trial for allegedly groping two women on a film set during 2021 production.

French actor Gérard Depardieu appeared in a Paris court Monday to face charges of sexually assaulting two women during the 2021 filming of Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters). The 76-year-old denies all allegations.

If convicted, Depardieu faces up to five years in prison and a €75,000 fine. The case is being viewed as a major test for the #MeToo movement in France, where societal attitudes toward sexual misconduct have evolved more slowly than in countries like the United States.

Depardieu briefly addressed reporters outside the courthouse, saying, “I’m ok.” Inside, he told the court he was ready to respond to questions. His lawyer, Jérémie Assous, claimed the accusations were politically motivated, stating, “The truth is on our side.”

Prosecutors allege that Depardieu groped a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant director during and outside of filming. He allegedly trapped one woman with his legs before groping her in front of witnesses and used obscene language. The other woman says she was assaulted both on set and in the street.

Emotions ran high in the courtroom. One plaintiff broke down in tears as her lawyer read a message she had written. Sitting beside her, the second accuser placed a hand on her shoulder to offer support.

Outside the court, feminist demonstrators called the proceedings a “historic moment” for women’s rights. The case follows other prominent challenges to sexual abuse in France, including the high-profile trial brought by Gisèle Pelicot.

Depardieu is also under investigation for a separate rape allegation made by actor Charlotte Arnould in 2018. That case remains active.

Due to health concerns, including diabetes and a past heart surgery, court sessions are limited to six hours with scheduled breaks. A verdict is expected at a later date.