French acting icon Gérard Depardieu is set to appear in a Paris courthouse on Monday as his trial for sexual assault officially begins. The case stems from allegations made during the production of the 2021 film The Green Shutters, where two women—an assistant director and a set designer—accused the actor of inappropriate and abusive behavior.
Depardieu, best known for his roles in The Count of Monte Cristo, Cyrano de Bergerac, and Green Card, has firmly denied all accusations, insisting that his actions have been misinterpreted. However, the court will now hear testimonies from the alleged victims, marking a major legal moment in the long list of misconduct claims that have overshadowed his once-celebrated career.
The Green Shutters, released in 2022, is an adaptation of Georges Simenon’s 1950 novel and features performances from Anouk Grinberg and Fanny Ardant. According to Mediapart, one of the women accusing Depardieu—a 54-year-old set designer—claims that while working on the film, he allegedly trapped her between his legs, groped her, and “kneaded” her waist, stomach, and chest. She recalls that crew members intervened and encouraged her to file a complaint. The film’s director, Jean Becker, reportedly supported her decision to come forward.
Despite trying to avoid Depardieu on set, the set designer alleges that he continued to intimidate her, glaring angrily and making grumbled insults whenever she was around. She has since left the film industry altogether.
Her lawyer, Carine Durrieu-Diebolt, told CNN that her client is seeking justice and official acknowledgment from the court that she was a victim of sexual assault.
Once regarded as a titan of French cinema, Depardieu’s legacy has been increasingly tainted by allegations of sexual misconduct. While he has faced accusations in the past, this trial is the first time he will be formally judged in court on charges of sexual assault. The outcome could have significant legal and cultural implications for both Depardieu and the broader film industry.
