Gérard Depardieu Awaits Verdict in Sexual Assault Trial

Gérard Depardieu's trial has ended, with a decision pending on allegations of sexual assault from two women during a film shoot in 2021, as both prosecution and defense present their final arguments.

Gérard Depardieu, the iconic French cinema star, is awaiting a verdict in his sexual assault trial, where he faces the prospect of a suspended prison sentence and being registered as a sex offender if convicted. The trial, which concluded six weeks ago, featured testimonies from two women who accused the 76-year-old actor of groping them during the shooting of a film in Paris in 2021. Depardieu has staunchly denied these allegations.

In his closing statements before the court on 27 March, prosecutor Laurent Guy highlighted the distinction between professional success and personal accountability, stating, "You are here to judge Gérard Depardieu, just as you would any other citizen." The prosecution has sought a suspended sentence of 18 months along with a fine of €20,000 (£16,850) and mandatory registration as a sex offender.

Claude Vincent, representing one of the accusers, criticized Depardieu, characterizing him as a "misogynist" reflective of a larger culture of sexism. Conversely, defense attorney Jérémie Assous called for an acquittal, claiming the plaintiffs were more activists than legal representatives.

The alleged incidents took place in September 2021 during the production of "Les Volets Verts" (The Green Shutters), which revolves around an aging actor facing the decline of his career. This is the first time Depardieu has faced sexual assault charges, and further allegations have been reported, including a potential rape case.

During testimonies, the first plaintiff, a set decorator, reported that after a minor disagreement, Depardieu caught her between his legs and gripped her hips. The second woman, an assistant director, accused him of touching her inappropriately on three different occasions. Depardieu has claimed that any contact was accidental or related to maintaining his balance.

After the hearings, he lamented the damage done to his reputation, stating, "My name has been dragged through the mud by lies and insults." He remarked on the trial experience, likening it to being immersed in a real-life science fiction scenario, and expressed gratitude for the insights he gained into legal proceedings.

Despite not having acted since allegations surfaced, reports indicate that Depardieu has resumed work on a project directed by his friend, actress Fanny Ardant, where he is cast as a magician on a mysterious island. Ardant defended his character in court, describing artistic genius as complex and sometimes dangerous.

In a rare expression of sympathy for Depardieu, 90-year-old Brigitte Bardot criticized the societal backlash against men, suggesting that talented individuals are unfairly punished for minor offenses. "Feminism isn't my thing," she noted, stating her preference for men.