A sexual assault trial against French actor Gérard Depardieu has been postponed this week over health concerns.
On Monday, a Paris criminal court postponed the sexual assault trial of Depardieu, citing concerns over his health. The proceedings have been rescheduled to begin in March next year.
The Allegations
Depardieu, who denies any wrongdoing, is accused of committing sexual assaults against two women using "violence, coercion, surprise, or threat," according to prosecutors. The alleged incidents occurred on the set of the film Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters).
Prosecutors allege that in both instances, the 75-year-old actor pinned the women between his legs and groped their buttocks, genitals, chest and breasts over their clothing.
France is continuing to confront issues of sexual violence in the aftermath of the #MeToo movement, which initially struggled to gain momentum in the country—particularly within the film industry.
Around 100 people gathered outside the courthouse on Monday, holding signs in response to a call from feminist groups to support victims of sexual violence. Some activists managed to enter the courtroom, sitting alongside other members of the public attending the hearing.
Depardieu Health Concerns
On Monday, the court has also mandated a medical expert to evaluate Depardieu's health. His lawyer, Jérémie Assous, requested the postponement, citing the actor's heart problems and complications related to diabetes.
Assous stated that doctors determined Depardieu was not fit to attend the proceedings, though the actor was eager to appear and defend himself in court.
While speaking with The Associated Press, Assous said, "He is anxious to defend himself, because for over three years, a huge number of inaccuracies, false information and lies have been systematically disseminated and relayed."
"We've only had the the word of prosecution. And now, finally, we're going to be able to have the word of the defense," he added.
Support for Depardieu
Last year, dozens of French actors signed a letter in support of Depardieu following the allegations made against him. In the letter, the actors said that the allegations made against Depardieu were "an attack on art itself," the BBC reported. The letter was signed by French actors including Carole Bouquet, Pierre Richard and Charlotte Rampling, the BBC reported.
Additionally, the BBC also reported that French President Emmanuel Macron called Depardieu "the pride of France" last year, prompting anger from many people. Macron also said that the investigation into Depardieu was a "manhunt," prompting criticism from some who sought to protect women.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
.png)
English (US) ·