The trial of Gérard Depardieu, the 75-year-old French actor facing sexual assault charges, has been delayed until March 2025 due to his health issues, as ruled by a Paris court on Monday.
Depardieu, who was absent for the trial’s opening, faces accusations of sexually harassing and groping two female crew members while filming Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters) in 2021.
If convicted, he could serve up to five years in prison.
Depardieu has denied all allegations, stating he has “never abused a woman.”
His attorney, Jeremie Assous, explained to the court that the actor had been “deeply affected” by illness and was unable to attend the proceedings.
Assous added that Depardieu is eager to present his case in court and speak directly on the matter.
The court has ordered a medical assessment of Depardieu and set the trial for March 24-25, 2025.
The actor’s case is a significant development for France’s #MeToo movement, making Depardieu the most prominent figure in French cinema to face such accusations.
According to prosecutors, the two women allege that Depardieu made explicit remarks and “violently grabbed” and “groped” them on set.
The actor’s legal team has dismissed these accusations as financially motivated, pointing to one woman’s reported demand for €30,000 in compensation.
In addition to this case, Depardieu faces a second trial next year concerning allegations by actress Charlotte Arnould, who has accused him of rape.
Depardieu has also been accused by over a dozen other women of inappropriate behavior.
Despite the allegations, Depardieu continues to receive vocal support from parts of France’s artistic community.
Last year, a letter signed by actors and public figures, including Charlotte Rampling and Carla Bruni, defended Depardieu, stating that the accusations were “an attack on art itself.”
President Emmanuel Macron also voiced support for Depardieu, calling him “the pride of France,” though Macron’s comments sparked backlash.
Actress Léa Seydoux labeled the president’s remarks as “crazy,” emphasizing the need for accountability over celebrity status.
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