The trial began on Monday in Paris, but the 75-year-old actor was not present in the courtroom himself because his health is too poor. Due to this, the court decided to postpone the trial for six months, until March next year.
Prior to the trial, Depardieu had, through his lawyer, appealed to have it postponed. Lawyer Jérémie Assous says that the star had wanted to be present and defend himself.
The past three years have seen a large number of inaccuracies, false information, and lies emerge. We have only heard the prosecutor's side, and now the public will finally get to hear the defense, says Assous.
The court also decided to bring in an expert to evaluate Depardieu's health problems before the new date.
The alleged sexual assaults are said to have taken place in connection with the filming of the movie "Les volets verts" in 2021.
In total, around 20 women have accused Depardieu of various sexual offenses. Two other criminal investigations are ongoing, concerning rape and sexual assault. Depardieu denies the crimes.
Approximately 100 people gathered outside the court in Paris on Monday to show support for victims of sexual violence.
