Gérard Depardieu in Court Facing Sexual Assault Charges

The trial of Gérard Depardieu marks a significant moment in the #MeToo movement, examining long-standing allegations against the actor.

On March 24, 2025, renowned French actor Gérard Depardieu attended a court hearing in Paris facing charges related to sexual assault allegations made by two women who allegedly encountered misconduct during the filming of the 2022 movie “Les Volets Verts.” This marks Depardieu's first court appearance in response to multiple accusations of inappropriate behavior, including groping, harassment, and rape, all of which he has vehemently denied.

The charges stem from complaints filed by two women on the film’s set, who accused him of groping them. If convicted, Depardieu could face up to five years in prison and a fine of approximately 75,000 euros. His lawyer, Jérémie Assous, refuted the allegations, labeling them as "totally false and unrealistic."

Previously scheduled for last October, the trial was delayed due to health concerns surrounding Depardieu, who has suffered from long-term diabetes and heart issues following a quadruple bypass surgery. He attributed his absence to heightened anxiety related to the trial.

For many observers, the legal proceedings could signify a turning point in France’s #MeToo movement, which had faced numerous challenges, particularly within the film industry.