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Gerard Depardieu to Stand Trial for Sexual Assault Allegations in Landmark #MeToo Case

The French actor faces accusations of groping two women during a 2021 film shoot, with proceedings set to begin on March 24 after delays due to his health.

French actor Gerard Depardieu arrives for the screening of the restored version of the movie "Novecento - Atto Primo" by Bernardo Bertolucci, presented as part of Venice Classics selection at the 74th Venice Film Festival on September 5, 2017 at Venice Lido. (Photo by Tiziana FABI / AFP)
Gerard Depardieu waves as he arrives during a red carpet event for the movie "Novecento- Atto Primo" at the 74th Venice Film Festival in Venice, Italy, Italy September 5, 2017.   REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi/File Photo
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Overview

  • Depardieu, 76, is accused of sexually assaulting two women during the filming of 'Les Volets Verts' in 2021, with prosecutors alleging groping and inappropriate behavior.
  • The trial, scheduled as a two-day proceeding, follows delays caused by the actor's health issues, with Depardieu denying all allegations and his lawyer calling them 'false accusations.'
  • Prosecutors claim one incident was witnessed by three people and allege a second woman was groped both on set and in the street, though the identities of the women remain undisclosed.
  • This is the first trial for Depardieu despite facing additional allegations, including a 2018 rape accusation for which prosecutors have requested a separate trial.
  • The case is seen as a pivotal moment for France's #MeToo movement, which has gained momentum following recent high-profile convictions in the film industry.