The court proceedings against renowned French actor Gérard Depardieu continue in Paris, as he faces allegations of sexual harassment on the set of the film Green Shutters in 2021.
Two women—a director’s assistant and a set designer—claim that the actor touched them without their consent. If convicted, Depardieu could face up to five years in prison and a fine of 75,000 euros.
On the third day of the hearings, the 75-year-old actor delivered a speech that sparked controversy. He stated that he never intended to harm anyone, describing himself as a man of the “old school.”
Maybe I’m rough, but I’m not a monster. I have a wife and children, said Depardieu, adding that he does not remember the women who filed the lawsuit against him.
His statement was met with loud reactions from the courtroom. Depardieu’s lawyer, Jérémy Assous, called some of the outraged attendees “hysterical,” further escalating tensions.
In the coming days, the court will hear the prosecution’s case, with particular attention to the testimony of the director’s assistant, known as Sarah. Her statements could play a decisive role in the case.
