The trial of Gérard Depardieu on sexual assault charges has been postponed until next year after the actor did not appear in court on Monday, citing health reasons.
His lawyer Jérémie Assous stated that the 75-year-old actor was too unwell to attend the proceedings due to his declining health caused by stress from the hearing. Medical certificates from a cardiologist and an endocrinologist were presented to support this claim.
Depardieu is accused of sexually assaulting two women while filming the movie “Les Volets Verts” in 2021. He has denied the allegations, stating that he has never abused a woman.
The trial was requested to be postponed by the actor’s lawyer, much to the dismay of the two female plaintiffs who were not informed beforehand. They have requested Depardieu to be examined by a court-appointed doctor and psychiatrist, which was denied by the court.
The names of the two women involved in the trial have not been revealed to the public. One of the alleged victims reported incidents of sexual assault, harassment, and insults while filming the movie with Depardieu.
The plaintiffs described incidents where Depardieu made explicit sexual remarks and acted inappropriately towards them on set. They are seeking justice and expect fair treatment in court.
The trial has been rescheduled for March next year, with the defense planning to present witnesses and evidence to refute the accusations against Depardieu.
An actor who worked on the same film as Depardieu mentioned his use of inappropriate language on set, supporting the plaintiffs’ claims of misconduct.
This case has sparked a debate in France regarding the treatment of sexual assault allegations and the accountability of high-profile individuals like Depardieu.