PARIS — Actor Gérard Depardieu began testifying Tuesday on Day 2 of his trial on sexual assault charges, saying, “I won’t hide, it’s hard.”
In his gruff, deep voice so familiar to global cinemagoers, the 76-year-old former Oscar nominee said it was “very emotional” for him to be in the Paris court, answering charges of assaulting two women on a movie set in 2021.
He has denied any wrongdoing.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below.
PARIS — Gerard Depardieu was expected to start testifying Tuesday on the second day of the French actor’s trial for alleged sexual assault.
Depardieu, 76, of having groped a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant during filming in 2021 of “Les Volets Verts” (“The Green Shutters”).
The actor faces up to five years in prison and a fine of 75,000 euros ($81,000) if convicted. He denies any wrongdoing.
Depardieu was in attendance again Tuesday in the Paris court for the trial’s second day. The proceedings started with the chief judge reading out a report that summarized the police investigation.
Because of Depardieu’s fame and impact on the French movie industry, his trial is seen as an important test of French willingness to confront sexual violence and hold influential men accountable.
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