In a landmark decision that’s sent shockwaves through the French film industry and beyond, the legendary actor has been found guilty of sexually assaulting two women on a film set.

The Paris court handed the 76-year-old star an 18-month suspended sentence, marking one of the most high-profile #MeToo cases to reach the French legal system.

For many Australians, Gerard Depardieu is a familiar face—his roles in classics like Green Card, The Last Metro, and Cyrano de Bergerac have made him a household name across the globe.

He's been celebrated as one of France's greatest actors over a career spanning more than five decades and 200 films.

French actor Gerard Depardieu was found guilty of assault by a Paris court and given an 18-month suspended sentence. Credit: Facebook

But this week, the spotlight turned to a much darker chapter.

The court found that Depardieu had sexually assaulted two women during a film shoot in 2021.

One of the victims, Amelie K, a set decorator now aged 54, bravely recounted how Depardieu groped her and made explicit comments, leaving her 'terrified' while he 'laughed'.

The judge, Thierry Donard, was scathing in his assessment, stating that Depardieu 'does not seem to have grasped either the concept of consent or the deleterious and traumatic consequences of his behaviour towards the women he assaulted.'

Depardieu, who was not present in court for the verdict, has been ordered to be placed on the official list of sex offenders in France.

This case has become a flashpoint in France’s ongoing debate about sexual violence, consent, and the #MeToo movement.

While the movement has gained significant traction in countries like the United States and Australia, France has been slower in embracing the same level of public reckoning.

However, attitudes are shifting, with more women coming forward and the public conversation growing louder.

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The trial also exposed a generational divide. Some prominent French figures, including former first lady Carla Bruni and actress Brigitte Bardot, have publicly defended Depardieu, calling the backlash a 'lynching' and lamenting that 'those who have talent and grope a girl get thrown into the gutter.'

These comments have sparked outrage among women’s rights advocates, who argue that talent should never excuse harmful behaviour.

Depardieu’s legal troubles may not be over. Prosecutors are considering a separate rape trial following allegations by actress Charlotte Arnould, who said she could no longer remain silent.

In total, more than a dozen women have accused Depardieu of sexual violence, though not all have filed formal complaints.

Depardieu has consistently denied all wrongdoing, writing in an open letter last year: 'Never, absolutely never, have I abused a woman.'

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For many, this verdict represents a turning point. Amelie K, one of the women at the centre of the case, told reporters: 'It’s truly a victory and a step forward. We’re making progress.'

The Depardieu case is a stark reminder that no one is above the law, no matter how famous or powerful.

It also highlights the importance of listening to survivors and supporting those who come forward.

In Australia, we’ve seen our own #MeToo moments, and cases like this reinforce the need for ongoing vigilance and cultural change.

If you or someone you know needs support, help is available through 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service (1800 211 028).

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In other news, famous author Neil Gaiman faces accusations of raping his son's nanny, Scarlett Pavlovich, in an outdoor bathtub at his New Zealand home, as reported by Vulture.

Further allegations from other women have surfaced, accusing Gaiman of sexual assault and aggressive behaviour, with some claims dating back to 1986. You can read more about it here.

Credit: YouTube​

Key Takeaways

• French actor Gerard Depardieu has been found guilty by a Paris court of sexually assaulting two women on a film set and given an 18-month suspended sentence.
• The judge stated that Depardieu did not appear to grasp the concept of consent or the traumatic consequences of his actions and ordered his name added to a list of sex offenders.
• Depardieu, who denied wrongdoing and plans to appeal, faced accusations from more than a dozen women, with his trial highlighting shifting attitudes in France towards sexual violence and the #MeToo movement.
• Women’s rights advocates see the verdict as progress for accountability and social change amid generational divides and ongoing public debate about sexual misconduct in the French film industry.

What do you think about this verdict? Do you believe the #MeToo movement is making a difference in Australia and around the world? Have you noticed a change in attitudes towards sexual harassment and assault in your own circles? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

 

[Suzanne rose]

Well that's a shock . I have watched many of his movies including French ones on world movies.

It is about time women were listened too. It's not fare for a woman to be sexually abuse or raped and the perpetrator to get away with it.
As long as a woman doesn't cry Wolf.

 

[PattiB]

There have been rumours about Depardieu for years but I don’t think he was ever charged. I’m glad that France is slowly changing how they view sexual assault cases & that this man has finally had to face the consequences of his actions. I watched several of his earlier movies, but not since I kept reading about women who said that he’d assaulted them. So many of our actors, singers and other high profile males think that they can do whatever they want without facing any consequences for their actions. That goodness that times are changing!

 

[Squizzy1]

I am not shocked by this, it is a generational thing imo, but slowly the neanderthals are changing from what was essentially accepted behaviour particularly among these celebrities which is a good thing. Assault/abuse is no longer tolerated on anyone.