Gérard Depardieu Trial for Sexual Assault: ‘I Grabbed Her by the Buttocks to Avoid Slipping’

The trial of French actor Gérard Depardieu began on Monday (24.03.2025) over allegations of sexual assault involving two women during film shootings. Depardieu admitted in court that he touched one of the women, grabbing her by the buttocks, but denied it was an assault. During the proceedings, he claimed any inappropriate comments were due to his bad mood. According to the prosecution, Depardieu made indecent remarks and engaged in unwanted physical contact, allegedly trapping one woman with his legs and kissing her in front of other crew members. Both women have filed official complaints, and their identities remain confidential under French law protecting victims of sexual violence. The 76-year-old French cinema icon has faced increasing accusations of sexual assault in recent years. Despite consistently denying any wrongdoing, this is the first case he is being tried for. Depardieu admitted to physically touching Amelie K, a set decorator, for the first time, stating he did not mention it during police questioning. He added that he grabbed her to avoid slipping because he was angry and tired. Seated in court, Depardieu alternated between confusion and evading the topic, saying he was upset with Amelie K’s work quality. He questioned why he would grab a woman and emphasized that some accusations, like trapping her with his legs, were impossible given his condition at the time. Regarding offensive comments, he said they were about her work, not personal. If found guilty, Depardieu could face up to five years in prison and a fine of €75,000 (£63,000). Originally scheduled for October, the trial was postponed due to the actor’s health issues.