French actor Gerard Depardieu's trial begins on sexual assault charges

The trial of French movie star Gerard Depardieu for allegedly sexually assaulting two women will begin today in Paris.

DepardieuThe actor, who has appeared in more than 200 films, is considered one of the icons of French cinema. He allegedly attacked both women during the filming of the movie Les Volets Verts in 2021.

If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison, but is more likely to be sentenced to a suspended prison sentence and a large fine.

Depardieu denied the allegations, claiming that he had never “harassed a woman”. A group of actors and directors said that the attack on Depardieu amounted to “an attack on art itself” and offered support to him.

The hearing is seen as a big moment for the growing MeToo movement. France.

MeToo, which became well-known in America during the Harvey Weinstein rape trial, exists to highlight sexual violence against women and pressure authorities to take more action. It often focuses on areas such as filmmaking, industries that have long been dominated by men and where sexual exploitation has been condoned.

President Emmanuel Macron’s description of the actor as the “pride of France” sparked a furious response from campaigners who claimed he was undermining efforts to protect women from violence.

French actress Lea Seydoux, known for her role in the Bond movie No Time to Die, described Mr Macron’s remarks as “crazy” and said: “It creates a very bad image of our country.”

Depardieu has long been known for living a life of excess and indulgence, and fans praise him as a maverick. But his popularity has waned recently as he faces an increasing number of allegations of inappropriate behavior.

The 75-year-old actor faces a retrial next year after being accused of raping actress Charlotte Arnould twice at her Paris home.

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