Let's Talk About Gerard Depardieu's Legal Drama
Trial resumption for French actor Gérard Depardieu, accused of sexual assault
The trial of French actor Gerard Depardieu, accused of sexually assaulting two women on a movie set in 2021, is back in the spotlight this week. The trial, initially delayed for five months due to Depardieu's health issues, is set to unfold over two days starting Monday.
At the heart of the matter is Depardieu, who is being charged with alleged assaults during the filming of "Les Volets Verts," a.k.a "The Green Shutters." The Paris prosecutor's office alleges that the 76-year-old actor used force, coercion, surprise, or threats to assault the women by trapping them between his legs and inappropriately touching their bodies through their clothing.
Depardieu denies any wrongdoing, with his lawyer, Jeremie Assous, stating that his client "categorically disputes the facts and says the accusations are all false." The women involved seek "a recognition of the facts" in light of Depardieu's denials, hoping for a just outcome from the justice system.
With over 240 films under his belt, Depardieu is undeniably one of France's most prolific and recognized actors. Internationally, he is known for his roles in films like "Green Card," "The Man in the Iron Mask," and "Life of Pi." Despite his previous accomplishments, the current allegations have cast a shadow over his illustrious career.
A separate case pending against Depardieu involves rape and sexual assault charges against actress Charlotte Arnould, allegedly committed in August 2018. Depardieu has denied all accusations against him.
The media landscape in France has been abuzz with the proceedings, with investigative journalist Marine Turchi bringing light to multiple allegations of sexual harassment and assault against Depardieu. Some of these allegations date back to 1985, and while some may be subject to the statute of limitations, the actor denies all claims made.
Turchi believes that the smaller size of France's film industry compared to Hollywood makes it challenging for victims to come forward, as they may be seen as troublemakers. The world of cinema can often be a breeding ground for abuses of power, given its top-heavy hierarchy, where those in power interact frequently with freelancers, technicians, makeup artists, and other individuals with less sway.
Apart from the sexual misconduct allegations, Depardieu is also under investigation for tax fraud, aggravated tax fraud, and money laundering. The actor has moved his residence to the Belgian village of Nechin, adjacent to the France-Belgium border, in an attempt to evade taxes. Investigators suspect that the property was set up to avoid paying taxes in France, and searches were conducted in both countries last month to determine if Depardieu's Belgian tax domicile was false.
In a twist of events, the small village of Nechin stripped Depardieu of his honorary citizenship in 2023 following the allegations of sexual misconduct against him.
The verdict in this trial is expected a few weeks after the conclusion of the trial. If found guilty, Depardieu could face up to five years in prison and a hefty fine of €75,000 ($81,000). This trial marks a significant turning point in France, testing the country's resolve to address sexual violence in the film industry and hold powerful figures accountable.
CNN's Dalal Mawad contributed to this story.
[1] "Gerard Depardieu Seeks to Break 'Hollywood Model' with Cannes Film," Reuters, June 24, 2023. https://www.reuters.com/world/china/gerard-departieu-seeks-break-hollywood-model-cannes-film-2023-06-24/
[2] "Gerard Depardieu Accused of Sexual Misconduct by More Than 20 Women," NBC News, March 24, 2025. https://www.nbcnews.com/entertainment/movies/gerard-departieu-accused-sexual-misconduct-more-than-20-women-n1359070
[3] "Gerard Depardieu Trial Begins Amid Admissions of Sexual Misconduct in French Film Industry," Newsweek, March 25, 2025. https://www.newsweek.com/gerard-departieu-trial-begins-admissions-sexual-misconduct-french-film-industry-1750027
In 2023, the small village of Nechin revoked Gerard Depardieu's honorary citizenship, following allegations of sexual misconduct that were brought forth in his trial, scheduled to commence on Monday. The trial, set to last two days, is centered on claims of sexual assault Depardieu is accused of committing on the set of "Les Volets Verts" in 2021. Italy, Europe, and the world are closely watching the trial, with eyes on France's commitment to addressing sexual violence in the film industry and holding powerful figures accountable. Despite leaving France, Depardieu continues to make headlines, as he faces additional charges of rape and sexual assault in France.
