Another performer has submitted a formal accusation against Gérard Depardieu, alleging that the renowned French actor sexually harassed her during the production of the 2007 movie Disco.
The complete account of Hélène Darras’ accusations against the famous French figure will be featured on the French investigative program, Complément d’Enquête, on Thursday night.
At the age of 26, Darras participated in a dance competition as a guest performer in the comedic film Disco, alongside Depardieu.
During an interview, Darras described Depardieu’s actions as if he were treating her like a mere object, stating that he approached her and touched her hips and buttocks with his hand.
According to reports, he then invited her to his dressing room, but Darras declined. However, this did not stop him from continuing to touch her inappropriately during breaks from filming.
Darras explained that she chose not to report the actor at that time because she was afraid it would result in her being “blacklisted”. She elaborated, “I was just a background actor and I hadn’t even completed my training in theatre. My dream was to become an actress.”
Investigators are currently examining the complaint, which may be subject to France’s statute of limitations, in order to decide whether or not to take legal action against Depardieu.
In 2018, Charlotte Arnould, an actor, made an accusation of rape against another actor. The accused individual has denied all allegations and the legal proceedings are currently ongoing.
In May of this year, Médiapart, a website focused on investigative journalism, released a comprehensive report outlining accusations made by 13 women. France Inter, a French radio station, conducted a separate inquiry into two of the allegations.
In October 2023, Depardieu refuted all accusations and wrote an open letter in French newspaper Le Figaro to defend himself. He stated, “I have never mistreated a woman” and expressed his defense against the media’s attacks and public condemnation.
He stated that he is not a rapist or predator, but due to the allegations, he will not be participating in any projects.
Source: theguardian.com
