Gérard Depardieu’s legal battle: accusations of sexual assault and harassment

Monday 24 March 2025 - 10:37

By: Zahouani Ilham

Gérard Depardieu’s legal battle: accusations of sexual assault and harassment

Gérard Depardieu, the renowned French actor, is set to stand trial on March 24 and 25, 2025, at the Paris Criminal Court, facing accusations of sexual assault by two women during the 2021 production of the film The Green Shutters, directed by Jean Becker. The accusations have drawn significant public attention, intensifying the ongoing controversy surrounding the actor.

In 2021, Depardieu, then 76, was cast by Becker in a role that reflected the aging, once-celebrated actor. The film, which explored the boundary between reality and fantasy, took a dark turn during its production as two women came forward with serious allegations.

Amélie, a 54-year-old set dresser, filed a complaint in February 2024, accusing Depardieu of sexual assault, harassment, and making sexist remarks. She described a disturbing incident where Depardieu allegedly grabbed her in a hallway and groped her inappropriately. She further claimed that his bodyguards intervened before the situation escalated, but Depardieu allegedly made dismissive comments before leaving.

Another accusation came in March 2024, when Sarah, a 34-year-old third assistant director, alleged that Depardieu touched her inappropriately on multiple occasions. Despite her attempts to stop him, she claimed the actor persisted, leaving her feeling shocked and violated. Both women reported the incidents to the film’s production team, but they felt their complaints were not taken seriously.

Depardieu has denied the accusations, with his lawyer asserting that the actor is the victim of a malicious campaign. The defense maintains that no witnesses can corroborate the claims against him. Though Jean Becker, the film's director, stated he was unaware of any inappropriate behavior, actress Anouk Grinberg has criticized Becker for allegedly turning a blind eye to the assaults, claiming the team had been told to remain silent if any issues arose during filming.

The legal proceedings come amid ongoing controversy. Depardieu has faced previous allegations of sexual violence, including a rape accusation from actress Charlotte Arnould in 2018, and has been the subject of six separate complaints, including two for rape. The actor’s reputation has been deeply tarnished by these allegations, and the case has become a major part of the #MeToo movement in France. In 2023, an open letter defended Depardieu, while another supported the victims, contributing to the heated public debate.

This trial is part of a broader pattern of accusations against the actor, who is also under investigation for a rape charge filed by Arnould. Despite his medical issues, Depardieu has been deemed fit to stand trial, and the outcome of these proceedings could significantly impact his career and legacy in French cinema.