The trial of French actor Gérard Depardieu begins in Paris today, focusing on the alleged sexual assaults of two women during a film shoot in 2021. Depardieu, 75, has consistently denied any misconduct and is accused of employing 'violence, coercion, surprise or threat' in the alleged incidents, which occurred on the set of 'Les Volets Verts' (The Green Shutters). Due to health issues, Depardieu will not be present at the criminal court proceedings. Prosecutors claim that in both instances, the victims reported being trapped between the actor's legs and groped on their buttocks, genitals, chest, and breasts over their clothing. One of the victims, a 53-year-old production designer, was witnessed by three individuals attempting to break free from Depardieu's grasp, appearing visibly 'shocked.' Following the incident, an apology was arranged for Depardieu to deliver, but in a recent TV interview, the victim stated that the actor was enraged and blamed her for causing a disturbance. Prosecutors confirmed that Depardieu's remarks did not constitute a genuine apology.
Jérémie Assous, Depardieu's lawyer, asserts that the evidence and witnesses will prove the actor's innocence against these false accusations. The court's ruling date remains uncertain, and if convicted, Depardieu could face up to five years in prison. This trial unfolds as France grapples with issues of sexual violence, particularly in the wake of the #MeToo movement, which struggled to gain momentum within the film industry. Despite the allegations, many have rallied in support of Depardieu, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who referred to the actor as 'the pride of France.' This comment sparked outrage among activists who felt it undermined efforts to protect women from violence. Last year, 56 French performers, writers, and producers published an essay defending Depardieu, arguing that targeting him in this manner was an attack on the art of cinema. This defense came shortly after a France 2 documentary detailed accusations of sexual misconduct by 16 women against Depardieu, including footage of the actor making inappropriate remarks and gestures during a 2018 trip to North Korea. Depardieu was charged with rape and sexual assault in 2021, following a revived investigation from 2018 that was initially dismissed, based on allegations from actress Charlotte Arnould. In an open letter published in Le Figaro, Depardieu declared, 'I have never, ever abused a woman.' Feminist groups are planning a protest outside the courthouse ahead of Monday's hearings.
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