Gérard Depardieu Testifies in Sexual Assault Trial, Denies Groping

Depardieu's Testimony and Defense

• 🎭 Gérard Depardieu testified in his sexual assault trial, admitting to using vulgar language and grabbing an accuser's hips.
• 💡 He denied the behavior was sexual, claiming he grabbed the woman's waist because he was sliding from his chair and needed to catch himself.
• 🗣️ Depardieu stated that any criticism of the accuser was professional, not sexual, and that he apologized for being rude, not for an assault.

Accuser's Account of the Incident

• 😨 The accuser described the incident as extremely traumatizing, stating Depardieu behaved “like a madman” and took “pleasure in frightening me.”
• 🚫 She recounted trying to avoid Depardieu, but he insisted she approach him, after which he allegedly groped her and touched her entire body.
• ⚖️ The accuser did not initially press charges, only realizing it was a sexual assault after consulting a doctor and hearing about other women accusing Depardieu.

On-Set Culture and Delayed Reporting

• 🎬 Testimonies suggest a lack of attention from colleagues during the alleged assault, with some regretting not intervening.
• 🤫 The accuser initially hesitated to report the incident to avoid causing a fuss or problems with production, feeling guilty and in denial.
• ⏳ She explained that growing up, groping women was not always considered an attack, reflecting a past mindset that contributed to her delayed reporting.

Moving Forward and Societal Impact

• 🌟 The accuser shared that she has since found new employment in the movie business, informing her new employers about the charges against Depardieu.
• ✅ Her new employers hired her regardless, highlighting a potential shift in attitudes and a willingness to support victims.
• 😔 The accuser expressed that she felt like a liability despite being the victim, illustrating the profound psychological impact of such experiences.