Acclaimed French actor Gérard Depardieu is set to face a criminal trial this October, following allegations of sexual assaults against two women during the filming of “The Green Shutters” in 2021. The Paris public prosecutor’s office confirmed that Depardieu, who denies the accusations, was detained and questioned earlier this week, though he was released the same day.
The allegations surfaced when a 53-year-old movie decorator accused Depardieu of inappropriate physical contact on the movie set. This prompted an investigation that has now led to his summons to criminal court. Depardieu’s attorney declined substantial comment, while the actor has maintained his innocence in previous statements.
This case adds to the growing #metoo movement within French cinema, highlighted by Judith Godrèche’s recent call at the Cesar Awards to confront sexual violence in the industry. Depardieu, a major figure in French film both nationally and internationally, faces serious scrutiny as the trial approaches, amidst broader discussions on the subject within the industry.
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