Depardieu Convicted: A Turning Point for French Cinema

Gérard Depardieu, France’s prominent film star, has been convicted of sexually assaulting two women during a film shoot in 2021 and received an 18-month suspended prison sentence. The 76-year-old actor, known for his extensive filmography, was found guilty of assaulting a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant director while filming “Les Volets Verts” in Paris. Testimonies revealed disturbing accounts of his behavior, including instances of physical aggression and explicit language. The set dresser described being forcibly trapped and assaulted, expressing fear and a sense of his intimidating savagery. The assistant director recounted multiple assaults while working closely with Depardieu, detailing his inappropriate comments and actions. Despite the allegations, Depardieu denied the charges and criticized the #MeToo movement, claiming it damaged his reputation. His conviction is seen as a significant moment for the French film industry, which has faced criticism for its handling of sexual abuse claims. A recent parliamentary report highlighted that sexual violence remains a pervasive issue in France’s entertainment sector, indicating ongoing challenges in addressing these matters effectively.

Source: The guardian