A Paris court is expected to deliver its verdict today in the sexual assault case against acclaimed French actor Gérard Depardieu, in what is seen as a key test of how post-#MeToo France handles misconduct allegations involving powerful public figures.
Depardieu, 76, is accused of groping two women—a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant—during the 2021 filming of Les Volets Verts.
During the four-day trial held in March, the actor denied the allegations, saying he’s “not like that.” He admitted to using vulgar, sexualized language and grabbing the set dresser’s hips during an argument but maintained that his behavior was not sexual in nature.
If convicted by the panel of judges, Depardieu faces up to five years in prison. Paris’ public prosecutor has called for an 18-month suspended sentence and a €20,000 fine, condemning what was described as the actor’s “total denial and failure to question himself.”
While some in the French film industry have backed the actor—actors Vincent Perez and Fanny Ardant were seen supporting him in court—the case has intensified public scrutiny of how France addresses sexual misconduct in the arts and media.
Depardieu has faced allegations from more than 20 women, though this is the first case to reach trial. Several others were dropped due to insufficient evidence or because they exceeded the statute of limitations.
Separately, a 2018 rape accusation made by actor Charlotte Arnould remains active. Prosecutors requested in August 2024 that the case go to trial, suggesting further legal battles may lie ahead for the actor.
