Gérard Depardieu Convicted of Sexual Assault, Receives Suspended Sentence and Fine

In a landmark ruling that underscores the ongoing scrutiny of sexual misconduct in the film industry, renowned French actor Gérard Depardieu has been found guilty of sexually assaulting two women during the production of a film. A Paris court on Tuesday handed down an 18-month suspended prison sentence, alongside a fine totaling 29,040 euros, equivalent to approximately $32,350. Moreover, the court mandated that Depardieu be registered in the national sex offender database.

The charges stem from incidents involving a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant on the set of the film “Les Volets Verts,” or “The Green Shutters,” filmed in 2021. This case has emerged as a critical examination of how French society and its film industry confront allegations of sexual misconduct following the #MeToo movement.

Despite the severity of the verdict, Depardieu, who maintains his innocence, did not attend the trial. His attorney has announced an intention to appeal the ruling.

According to Carine Durrieu Diebolt, the lawyer representing the set dresser, this verdict symbolizes a significant victory not only for the two women in this case but also for the broader fight against sexual abuse in the film industry. She remarked, “It is the victory of two women, but it is the victory of all the women beyond this trial. Today we hope to see the end of impunity for an artist in the world of cinema. I think that with this decision we can no longer say that he is not a sexual abuser.” Diebolt also emphasized the importance of remembering Depardieu’s victims as the Cannes Film Festival commences.

A Storied Career Meets Controversy

With a career spanning several decades and encompassing over 250 films, the 76-year-old actor has solidified his status as a giant in French cinema. Notably, Depardieu received an Oscar nomination in 1991 for his role as the poet and swordsman Cyrano de Bergerac. However, his illustrious career has recently been overshadowed by numerous allegations of misconduct from over 20 women. Despite this, only the current sexual assault case has advanced to court, while others were dismissed due to insufficient evidence or lapses in the statute of limitations.

During the trial held over four days in March, Depardieu rejected the allegations, asserting his character was not reflective of the accusations leveled against him. He admitted to using inappropriate language on set and acknowledged a brief physical confrontation with the set dresser, yet he denied that his actions carried sexual intent.

The Court’s Findings

A panel of three judges deliberated on the evidence presented and ultimately deemed Depardieu’s explanations unconvincing. They noted the consistent and substantiated testimonies of both accusers, highlighting the aggressive tactics employed by the defense, which they believed exacerbated the emotional harm to the plaintiffs.

Following the verdict, Jérémie Assous, Depardieu’s lawyer, expressed dismay that the court viewed their questioning of the accusations as an additional assault on the victims. He criticized the implications that a strong defense is unacceptable in such trials.

Details of the Allegations

Specific accounts of the alleged assaults provided by both women were harrowing. One accuser described an incident in which Depardieu allegedly confined her against his legs in a narrow corridor. She claimed he manipulated her hips and made inappropriate advances, stating he had suggested she could touch him in sexual ways, leading to feelings of intimidation.

Similarly, the other woman testified that Depardieu groped her inappropriately multiple times, creating a hostile environment on set. The Associated Press does not disclose the identities of individuals who report sexual assault unless they consent; in this case, neither woman has chosen to be named publicly, although one has permitted her likeness to be used.

The Aftermath of Verdict

In the wake of the verdict, one plaintiff, the set dresser, expressed her satisfaction with the court’s decision, stating it felt like a moment of justice. “I’m very, very much satisfied with the decision, that’s a victory for me, really, and a big progress, a step forward. I feel justice was made,” she told reporters.

Notably, some members of the French film community have openly supported Depardieu throughout the legal proceedings. Actors Vincent Perez and Fanny Ardant were seen in the courtroom advocating for him. Meanwhile, reports indicate that Depardieu resumed film work in the Azores, Portugal, under Ardant’s direction.

This legal matter may not be the last for the actor. In 2018, he faced accusations from Charlotte Arnould, who alleged an assault at his home. This ongoing case has recently gained new momentum as prosecutors requested it be brought to trial in August 2024.

Legacy in Question

For over 50 years, Gérard Depardieu has been a formidable presence in French cinema, recognized for his exceptional talent and rich performances. However, recent allegations of misconduct, including revelations from a documentary about his behavior in North Korea, have tainted his reputation. As the public grapples with the findings of the court and the implications for a storied career, the spotlight remains on how the film industry will handle accusations against its icons in the future.