French actor Gérard Depardieu, who is facing trial for the alleged sexual assaults of two women on a film set in 2021, will not be present at the opening of the trial in Paris due to health reasons, his lawyer stated. Depardieu, who has denied any wrongdoing, is accused of using violence, coercion, and threats during the alleged assault on the set of “Les Volets verts” (“The Green Shutters”).
According to his lawyer Jérémie Assous, doctors have advised Depardieu against appearing in court, citing health concerns that prevent him from attending the trial. Despite his absence, Assous mentioned that Depardieu wishes to express himself and participate in the legal proceedings. The trial was scheduled amidst ongoing efforts in France to address sexual violence following the #MeToo movement, especially within the film industry.
One of the victims, a 53-year-old production designer, reported that Depardieu made sexual remarks towards her before physically assaulting her on set. Witnesses confirmed the incident, stating that the actor groped her inappropriately and made obscene gestures during the assault. The victim suffered emotional trauma and sought medical assistance following the incident. Despite efforts to reconcile, the victim revealed in a recent interview that Depardieu had not issued a proper apology, further escalating the situation.
In addition to the production designer’s allegations, another woman working on the film set accused Depardieu of inappropriate behavior, claiming that he had insulted and touched her without consent. The actor’s lawyer maintains that the allegations are false and plans to present evidence to refute the claims during the trial. Despite the accusations against Depardieu, several prominent figures, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have voiced their support for the actor, emphasizing the importance of preserving the art of cinema.
The upcoming trial involving Gérard Depardieu sheds light on the broader issue of sexual violence and misconduct in the film industry, prompting discussions about accountability and justice for victims. As the case unfolds, it underscores the need for a transparent and fair legal process to address such allegations and ensure that all parties involved receive due diligence and respect. The outcome of Depardieu’s trial could have far-reaching implications for how the industry handles similar cases in the future, signaling a potential shift towards greater accountability and awareness regarding sexual misconduct.
