Gérard Depardieu Convicted of Sexual Assault, Added to Sex Offender List

Legendary French actor Gérard Depardieu has been found guilty of sexually assaulting two women on the set of the 2021 film Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters), according to a ruling handed down Tuesday by a Paris court. The 76-year-old was sentenced to an 18-month suspended prison term and has been added to France’s national sex offender registry.

Depardieu Absent as Verdict Is Delivered

Gérard Depardieu, one of France’s most recognized international stars, was not present in court for the verdict, citing filming obligations in Portugal.

Despite his absence, the court found the evidence presented by the victims, both film crew members, credible and consistent.

The two women, a 54-year-old set decorator and a 34-year-old assistant director, accused the actor of groping and inappropriate touching during production. Witness testimonies corroborated their claims. 

The one of the two plaintiffs, identified as Amélie K, gave detailed and emotional testimony. She described how Depardieu trapped her between his legs, groped her, including her breasts and made explicit sexual remarks, all while laughing. She testified that the experience left her terrified. 

“He touched everything, including my breasts,” she said. “I was terrified. He was laughing.”

Legal Consequences and Rehabilitation Order

Alongside the suspended sentence, Gérard Depardieu must undergo mandatory psychological treatment and pay financial compensation to the victims.

The court emphasized the gravity of his actions, noting that his behavior on set created a hostile and degrading work environment.

This conviction marks the first legal judgment against Depardieu, but it may not be the last. The actor is still facing an ongoing rape case brought by actress Charlotte Arnould, who alleges Depardieu raped her in 2018.

At least a dozen other women have come forward with similar accusations dating from 2004 to 2022.

A Landmark Case for #MeToo in France

Depardieu’s sentencing is being hailed as a watershed moment for France’s #MeToo movement. Activists argue that the decision sends a strong message about accountability in the entertainment industry, especially in a country long accused of protecting its powerful figures.

Divided Public Reaction

The court ruling has sparked fierce debate across France. Some public figures who previously defended Depardieu are now distancing themselves.

Others argue he is the victim of a media witch hunt. Social media, meanwhile, has been flooded with calls for justice and support for the victims.

Depardieu’s legal team has announced plans to appeal the conviction. If the appeal fails, any future offense could activate his suspended sentence and lead to actual prison time.

Despite his legal troubles, Depardieu continues to work in film and television.