Gerard Depardieu ​requests trial delay due to health issues

Actor faces serious ‌allegations as health concerns ⁣arise

The renowned French actor Gerard Depardieu has requested a postponement of his upcoming trial ​for sexual assault, citing health ⁣reasons. His lawyer confirmed that Depardieu’s medical condition prevents him from attending court.

Health concerns ⁢impede court⁣ appearance

Depardieu’s trial was set‍ to start⁣ on Monday‌ in Paris. According to his legal representative, the​ actor is “extremely affected” by his health condition, which has​ led‌ his doctors to advise against his presence ‌at the hearing. He will be asking for the trial to ​be rescheduled‍ to a later date to allow for his participation.

Allegations from the set of “The Green Shutters”

The accusations against Depardieu stem from incidents allegedly occurring during the filming of The Green Shutters (Les⁤ volets verts) in the South of France in the summer of 2021. Depardieu, a central figure⁤ in French ⁤cinema with a filmography of over 150 movies, ‌including⁢ the acclaimed Cyrano de Bergerac, now faces severe charges.

If convicted, Depardieu could face up to five years in prison and ⁢a fine of €75,000.

Details of the accusations

Two women, who worked on the set of The Green Shutters, have accused Depardieu of sexual misconduct.

Amelie K.’s statement

Amelie K., a set decorator, alleged that ⁢Depardieu made several inappropriate remarks and physically assaulted her on September 10, 2021. She ​stated that Depardieu blocked her way, grabbed her, and made obscene‌ comments. Her colleagues intervened, and although she reported⁢ the incident to the production ⁢manager, Depardieu continued to make unfriendly remarks for the remainder of the shoot.

A spokesperson for the Paris Prosecutor’s Office mentioned that Amelie K. was not the only victim.

Engela W.’s complaint

Engela W., who served as⁣ an assistant to director Jean ⁣Becker, filed a ⁢complaint in March of this year. She reported that Depardieu touched her inappropriately on multiple occasions, despite her​ clear refusal. She also stated that Depardieu became insulting toward her after the incident.

Previous allegations and ongoing investigations

The current trial is not⁢ the first time Depardieu has faced such allegations. ⁢In December 2020, he was indicted over similar accusations by actress Charlotte Arnould from 2018. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has‌ recommended that these charges ⁤be escalated to the departmental criminal court to stand trial for alleged rape and‌ sexual assault.

Another complaint,‌ dating back to 2007, was filed by actress Helene Darras but was later dropped due to statute limitations.

Impact on Depardieu’s ⁣career

The wave of accusations against⁣ Depardieu ⁢has significantly impacted his career, especially in light of the #MeToo movement, which has⁢ gained‌ momentum in France. Once a stalwart of the French film industry, Depardieu’s professional opportunities have dwindled.⁣ Recently, he starred​ in a minor Italian ‌horror film, Twins, currently in post-production.

Depardieu’s defense

Depardieu and his legal team have denied all allegations. His lawyer argued that the accusations are financially motivated,‌ citing ⁤compensation demands ranging from €6,000 ⁣to €30,000. Depardieu himself has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, stating, “Never ever have ⁤I ⁣abused a ⁤woman.”

The director and examining magistrate will​ ultimately determine the future direction​ of these proceedings. The breadth of allegations⁢ over the years paints ⁢a troubling pattern,​ and the judicial system will need to weigh the evidence carefully.

Depardieu’s ‍trial and the resulting legal battle ‌are sure to attract considerable public‌ attention, further highlighting the importance of these​ issues within the entertainment industry.

Keep up with unfolding developments and⁤ follow our coverage for more updates on this case and its broader societal implications. Share this article and join the conversation about accountability and justice within the film industry.