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Gérard Depardieu Trial: French Cinema Star Addresses Sexual Assault Allegations in Paris Court
French cinema icon Gérard Depardieu has acknowledged that his past behavior and language are out of sync with contemporary societal norms during his sexual assault trial in Paris. The actor, facing accusations of sexual assault, admitted in court that his “rude” and “vulgar” language is no longer considered acceptable in the current climate. This admission came on the third day of the proceedings against the veteran performer.
Depardieu Claims “Old World” Vulgarity Misunderstood in “New World”
Depardieu told the court that several years ago, he became so aware of the changing perceptions that he insisted female assistants avoid his dressing room to prevent potential offense. “Knowing the vulgarity of the old world, today I try to avoid being listened to by the new world – so that I don’t come across as detestable,” he stated during the trial.
“I am not very much at ease with this new society… I think my time is done,” Depardieu expressed, reflecting on his place in the evolving social landscape.
Denial of Sexual Abuse Amidst Trial
Despite these acknowledgements, Depardieu maintains his innocence regarding the sexual assault allegations. “I don’t see how it could be fun feeling up a woman, her buttocks, her breasts. I am not a metro-train groper,” he asserted, denying the accusations.
The 76-year-old actor is accused by two women of sexual assault that allegedly occurred on a film set in 2021. Both women claim Depardieu touched them inappropriately on intimate areas of their bodies.
Defense Strategy: Accidental Contact vs. Sexual Intent
In court, Depardieu reiterated his defense, suggesting that any physical contact with the women might have been accidental or for balance, explicitly denying any sexual motivation behind his actions.
A conviction in this case could result in a prison sentence of up to five years and a fine reaching €75,000 (£63,000; $81,000). The trial is expected to continue until at least Thursday.
Legal Teams Clash in Packed Courtroom
The courtroom has been tense since Monday, marked by heated exchanges between the opposing legal teams. Jérémie Assous, Depardieu’s lawyer, has adopted an aggressive defense strategy focused on discrediting the two plaintiffs.
However, on Wednesday, Depardieu faced intense questioning himself, leading to a moment where he seemed to downplay the severity of touching a buttock in the context of sexual assault.
Debate Over Definition of Sexual Assault
“I never carried out an act of sexual assault [against a plaintiff]. Anyway sexual assault in my view is worse than what she has said,” Depardieu stated under questioning from Carine Durrieu-Diebolt, the plaintiff’s lawyer.
Ms. Durrieu-Diebolt pressed further, “You’re saying that sexual assault has to be more than a hand on the buttocks?”
Mr. Assous, Depardieu’s lawyer, immediately interjected, stating, “No, that is not what my client said,” and accused Ms. Durrieu-Diebolt of attempting to create soundbites for media dissemination.
Accusations of Activism and Baiting Tactics
The adversarial atmosphere between the two legal teams is palpable. The plaintiffs’ team views Mr. Assous’s approach as deliberately provocative, while Mr. Assous suggests that “feminist activists” have influenced the plaintiffs to press charges.
Incident Context: Film Set Allegations
The alleged incidents occurred in Paris in September 2021 during the filming of “Les Volets Verts” (The Green Shutters), a movie about an aging actor confronting his declining career.
Past Allegations and Denials
This trial marks the first time Depardieu has faced formal charges for sexual assault. He has previously denied similar allegations and a rape accusation that have surfaced in the media from other women.
Plaintiffs’ Testimonies Detail Alleged Assaults
The first plaintiff, a set decorator, testified on Tuesday, recounting an incident where Depardieu allegedly grabbed her between his legs and held her hips while verbally abusing her after a minor disagreement.
The second plaintiff, an assistant director, described three instances of alleged assault. These included Depardieu reportedly touching her buttock as she escorted him from his dressing room, touching her breasts over her clothing on another occasion, and a subsequent buttock touching. She claimed that after reporting these incidents to her supervisor, Depardieu labeled her a “snitch” and avoided her presence.
Defense Presents Contradictory Evidence
The defense presented photographs showing Depardieu and the second plaintiff appearing amicable at the end of the film shoot. The plaintiff explained that she initially sought to minimize the incidents and was uncertain if they constituted a criminal offense at the time.
She stated that it was only after witnessing media coverage of other sexual misconduct allegations against Depardieu two years later that she decided to file a formal complaint with the police.
The plaintiff further testified that the ordeal has caused her significant anxiety and continues to disrupt her sleep.
Public Scrutiny and Depardieu’s Courtroom Demeanor
The trial provides a rare public glimpse of Gérard Depardieu, once celebrated as a cinematic icon through films like “Green Card” and “Cyrano de Bergerac.”
He has appeared in court wearing a black shirt and jacket, relying on the support of his bodyguard, Massika.
Bodyguard’s Presence and Depardieu’s Physical Condition
Massika, the bodyguard, was a frequent topic of discussion during the proceedings. Depardieu asserted that Massika’s constant presence would have made it impossible for him to commit the alleged sexual assaults.
Depardieu also highlighted his own physical limitations, stating he is significantly overweight and experiences difficulty walking even short distances.
“My joints all hurt. Basically my body is bust,” he told the court, describing his physical condition.
In the courtroom, Depardieu uses a special white box, brought by Massika, as a seat. The box is covered in supportive messages, kiss-marks, and signatures from well-wishers.