### Gérard Depardieu Faces Sexual Assault Charges in Paris Trial

In a combative trial atmosphere, the renowned French actor confronted the claims made by two women during his appearance in court, claiming his actions were misinterpreted.

Gérard Depardieu took the stand in Paris for the third day of his sexual assault trial, firmly denying charges that he assaulted two women on a film set in 2021. The storied actor suggested that he is out of touch with contemporary societal norms, acknowledging during his testimony that his past use of "rude" and "vulgar" language no longer holds acceptance.

Despite emphasizing his lack of sexual intent, he faces multiple allegations. “I don’t see how it could be fun feeling up a woman,” he stated, dismissing the idea that he is a predator. His defense centers on the claim that any physical contact was unintentional or a matter of trying to maintain his balance. If found guilty, he risks a prison sentence of up to five years and a fine as steep as €75,000.

The trial has become a spectacle, featuring fierce exchanges between legal teams and an audience captivated by the high-profile nature of the case. Onlookers were treated to intense questioning of both parties, where the plaintiffs described uncomfortable instances involving Depardieu. One plaintiff, a set decorator, recounted an incident where he allegedly held her inappropriately, while another, an assistant director, accused him of touching her inappropriately on three separate occasions.

Throughout the proceedings, Depardieu’s lawyer has aggressively sought to discredit the testimonies against his client. Tensions escalated when the plaintiffs’ lawyer attempted to clarify statements made by the actor, which led to an emphatic objection from Depardieu’s legal team.

Photos presented in court showed Depardieu and one of the plaintiffs appearing amicable at the completion of the film shoot, a point the defense used to question the timing and validity of the complaints. The plaintiff later revealed that she only filed charges after seeing media coverage of other allegations against the actor, citing emotional distress as a lingering result of the alleged incidents.

The courtroom has been a rare scene for the public, showcasing a once-beloved figure facing the consequences of his actions. Now aged 76 and visibly dealing with health issues, Depardieu appeared in court supported by his bodyguard. As the trial continues, it provides insight into both the challenges of reckoning with past behaviors and the evolving standards of acceptable conduct in today’s society. The proceedings are set to extend at least until Thursday, keeping the spotlight on this significant case that resonates beyond the realm of the arts.