Depardieu, a prominent French film star, appeared in court on Monday for his trial over alleged sexual assaults on a film set, which highlights the ongoing discussion on sexual violence in France. He has denied numerous accusations of rape and sexual assault from over a dozen women; however, this is the first time he has appeared in court to defend himself against these claims. His lawyer, Assous, stated that Depardieu will have the opportunity to speak in court to defend himself. The trial, initially scheduled for October, was delayed due to Depardieu’s poor health. He faces allegations of sexually assaulting two women during the 2021 filming of “Les Volets Verts” (“The Green Shutters”) and is accused of groping and harassing them while using obscene language. Three witnesses testified to these events. The trial is expected to last up to three days, and if found guilty, Depardieu could receive a sentence of up to five years in prison and a fine of €75,000. This trial marks the most high-profile #MeToo case to go to court in France.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/mar/24/gerard-depardieu-arrives-at-paris-court-for-trial-over-sexual-assault-allegations