Actor Gerard Depardieu found guilty of sexual assault in France; receives suspended sentence for inappropriately touching two women on a film set, leading to him being added to the sex offenders list.
Title: French Icon Gerard Depardieu Convicted of Sexual Assault in High-Profile #MeToo Case
Setting the scene, here's a rundown of events: French acting legend Gerard Depardieu, aged 76, has been convicted of sexual assaulting two women on the set of the 2021 film "Les Volets Verts" ("The Green Shutters"). Today, a Paris court handed down an 18-month suspended sentence to the prolific actor, who was a no-show for the verdict. He also received a hefty fine of approximately $32,350 and his name on the national sex offender registry.
The Parisian court announced its decision this morning, with Depardieu's absence from the courtroom. The veteran performer, who starred in over 200 films and TV series, has repeatedly refused any wrongdoing in one of France's most high-profile Me Too cases.
On camera, up close
The trial centered on charges of sexual assault during the filming of "The Green Shutters" directed by Jean Becker, and the testimonies of two brave women.
The primary accuser, a 54-year-old set decorator named Amelie K, detailed her harrowing encounter. In her account to the court, Depardieu trapped her between his legs, made explicit remarks, and groped her, leaving her feeling terrified and helpless as he laughed at her.
An assistant director, aged 34, revealed similar instances of Depardieu's actions — first assaulting her as he escorted her from his dressing room to the set, as well as on two subsequent occasions.
Judge Thierry Donard dismissed the actor's defense as implausible: "I'm vulgar, rude, foul-mouthed, I'll accept that," Depardieu told the court, yet he claimed, "I don't touch."
Expressing dissent, he declared, "I adore women and femininity," while branding the Me Too movement as a "reign of terror." Depardieu argued that he didn't consider placing a hand on a person's bottom to be sexual assault and that some women were too easily offended.
Amelie K's lawyer hailed the court's ruling as a "beautiful decision" that offered recognition to the victims. Depardieu's legal representative confirmed plans to appeal the decision.
The French actor has encountered a wave of sexual assault allegations in recent years, with about 20 women coming forward with accusations. However, this was the first to make it to court.
A symbol of change
This conviction is viewed as a significant post-#MeToo moment for French society and its film industry, signaling a push to end the impunity enjoyed by influential figures accused of sexual misconduct. The set dresser’s lawyer heralded the verdict as a broader victory for women, denouncing years of abuse that had often gone unchecked, urging the film world to acknowledge the victims as the Cannes Film Festival commenced.
Remember, this conviction places Depardieu on the official French sex offender list, a notable development in holding high-profile individuals accountable for sexual misconduct.
[1] French actor Gerard Depardieu convicted of sexual assault on two women in 2021, court rules, AFP, May 13, 2025.[2] French court hands 18-month suspended sentence to Gerard Depardieu for sexual assault, Reuters, May 13, 2025.
- Following his conviction for sexual assault, French actor Gerard Depardieu faces a wave of breaking news headlines, marking a significant moment in France's crackdown on sexual misconduct within the high-profile entertainment industry.
- Amidst the broader context of health-and-wellness and sexual-health discussions, the trial's focus on women's rights and the Me Too movement shines a light on the importance of staying vigilant against abusive behavior in general-news and crime-and-justice matters.
- In the continuing scientific examination of power dynamics and the treatment of women, this court ruling is considered a vital step towards enhancing justice in war-torn societies and creating more equitable work environments, offering hope for victims everywhere.
