French film icon Gérard Depardieu is set to face trial at the Paris Criminal Court on Monday, facing sexual assault allegations stemming from the set of the film "Les Volets Verts" ("The Green Shutters") in 2021. The 76-year-old actor is accused by two women of separate incidents of sexual assault during the film's production, directed by Jean Becker. This trial marks the first case against Depardieu to reach the courts, despite approximately 20 women having previously accused him of inappropriate behavior.

The trial, expected to span two days, places Depardieu at the center of France's #MeToo movement, as he is one of the most prominent figures to be accused. If convicted, Depardieu could face up to five years in prison and a fine of €75,000 ($81,600), according to the public prosecutor's office.

The accusations detail disturbing encounters. A 54-year-old set dresser alleges that Depardieu cornered her in a corridor, touching her breasts, buttocks, and genitals while making obscene comments. A second woman, a 34-year-old assistant to the director, also accuses Depardieu of touching her breasts and buttocks on the film set. Claude Vincent, the lawyer representing the second woman, expressed concern about the defense's treatment of the civil parties during the hearing, emphasizing his client's desire for the trial to proceed.

Both women filed their cases in February and March 2024, respectively. Actress Anouk Grinberg, who also worked on the film, has publicly voiced her support for both accusers. Additionally, Depardieu faces an open case concerning the alleged rape of actress Charlotte Arnould in 2020, allegations which he vehemently denies.

In an open letter published in the French daily Le Figaro, Depardieu asserted, "Never, but never, have I abused a woman." However, his past is marred by other incidents, including accusations of drunk driving, urinating in an airplane aisle, and engaging in brawls.

The trial was initially scheduled for October 2024 but was postponed due to Depardieu's health issues. He has been managing diabetes for over 25 years and has undergone quadruple bypass surgery. Ahead of the trial, he was required to submit health certificates. His legal representation, led by Jeremie Assous, a well-known criminal defense lawyer, maintains that the accusations are "completely fabricated" and claims a lack of direct witnesses to the alleged incidents. To accommodate Depardieu's health, his court appearances will be limited to six hours per day, with provisions for breaks as needed.

A veteran of French cinema, Depardieu has appeared in over 200 films, solidifying his status as a major figure in the industry. The outcome of this trial will undoubtedly have significant repercussions for both his career and the broader conversation surrounding sexual misconduct in the entertainment world.