The renowned French actor, Gérard Depardieu, is on trial for sexually assaulting an assistant director on three separate occasions during the filming of the movie Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters) in Paris in 2021. According to the assistant director, who has chosen to remain anonymous, Depardieu placed his hands on her buttocks and breasts, leaving her feeling traumatized. Depardieu, known as France’s most prominent movie star to face a sexual assault trial in the wake of the #MeToo movement, is also accused of sexually assaulting a set decorator on the same film. He is facing potential imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of €75,000 (£63,000) if convicted.

Depardieu has vehemently denied these allegations, stating, “I deny all of it.” He has also claimed that his actions were misconstrued due to his reputation for being vulgar and crude, underscoring that he respects people and has never intentionally touched anyone in an unwarranted manner. The assistant director detailed the incidents, recounting that Depardieu had touched her buttocks during a night shoot and that she felt pressured and belittled by his continuous lewd comments on set. After informing her superior about the assaults, Depardieu reacted by labeling her a “snitch” and creating a hostile work environment.

In a surprising turn, the acclaimed French actress Fanny Ardant, a close friend of Depardieu, testified in his favor, praising his talent and character, though she was not present during the alleged assaults. Ardant’s support does not sway the court’s proceedings, which continue to unfold with significant public interest.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/mar/26/woman-tells-court-gerard-depardieu-groped-her-buttocks-and-breasts-on-set