Trial against French actor Gerard Depardieu on sexual assault charges begins

The trial of French film star Gerard Depardieu begins today in Paris on charges of sexual abuse of two women.

Depardieuwho appeared in more than 200 films, is considered an icon of French cinema. He allegedly assaulted both women during the making of the 2021 film Les Volets Verts.

If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison, although it is more likely that he will receive a combination of a suspended sentence and a large fine.

Depardieu has denied the allegations, claiming he has never “abused a woman”. He has received support from a group of actors and directors, who said an attack on Depardieu meant “an attack on art itself”.

The trial is seen as a big moment for the growing MeToo movement France.

MeToo, which became known in America during the Harvey Weinstein rape case, exists to draw attention to sexual violence against women and to urge more action from the authorities. It has often emphasized areas such as filmmaking, industries that have long been male-dominated, where sexual abuse often turns a blind eye.

President Emmanuel Macron described the actor as “the pride of France”, sparking angry reactions from campaigners who claimed he was undermining efforts to protect women from violence.

French actress Lea Seydoux, known for her role in the Bond film No Time to Die, described Macron’s words as “crazy” and said “it gives a very bad image of our country.”

Depardieu has long had a reputation for living a life of excess and indulgence, with his fans praising him as a maverick. Recently, however, his popularity has waned as he has faced a growing number of claims of inappropriate behavior.

The 75-year-old is due to be tried again next year after being accused of twice raping actress Charlotte Arnould at his Paris home.