PARIS (AP) — French actor Gérard Depardieu started testifying Tuesday on Day 2 of his trial on sexual assault expenses, saying, “I won’t hide, it’s hard.”
In his gruff, deep voice so acquainted to international cinemagoers, the 76-year-old former Oscar nominee stated it was “very emotional” for him to be within the Paris courtroom, answering expenses of assaulting two girls on a film set in 2021.
He has denied any wrongdoing. However the French display legend acknowledged to the courtroom that his conduct is regarded by some as boorish.
“I’ve at all times been advised I’ve a Russian nature, I don’t know if it’s due to the consuming or the vulgarity,” he stated.
Depardieu is accused of getting groped a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant throughout filming in 2021 of “Les Volets Verts” (“The Green Shutters”).
The actor faces as much as 5 years in jail and a superb of 75,000 euros ($81,000) if convicted.
Due to Depardieu’s fame and impression on the French film trade, his trial is seen as an essential take a look at of French willingness to confront sexual violence and maintain influential males accountable.
