Who is Gerard Depardieu? Family details explored as French actor faces rape charges

Gerard Depardieu is a famous French actor who is facing serious rape charges. As per reports by The New York Times, he has been called to stand trial in Paris over the allegations. He faces rape and sexual assault charges brought by actress Charlotte Arnould. There are currently no confirmed official dates.

Beyond his legal troubles, Depardieu has had a long and distinguished acting career. He has appeared in numerous French and international films, often portraying strong, larger-than-life characters—including historical figures, literary icons, and comedic roles. An iconic figure in French cinema, he is particularly known for playing roles such as Christopher Columbus, Cyrano de Bergerac, and Jean Valjean, among others. He has two well-known children, Guillaume (late) and Julie, both of whom followed him into acting.

It started in May 2025, when Depardieu was convicted of sexual assault on two women. They claimed that he made advances on them while shooting a film back in 2021. He received an 18-month suspended sentence, must register as a sex offender in France, and pay a fine of approximately €29,000. Depardieu has stated that he will appeal that verdict.

Now, a judge has agreed to advance Arnould’s rape claim. She claims the acts took place in August 2018 at Depardieu’s home. Originally dismissed due to lack of evidence, the case was reopened after a civil lawsuit in 2020. No trial date has been set yet. Arnould states she feels a sense of relief that her case is going to trial.

Gerard Depardieu's business and more on his personal life

Gerard Depardieu's personal life includes an early marriage to actress Élisabeth Depardieu (born Guignot), with whom he had two children, Guillaume (late) and Julie, both of whom are actors. They separated in the early 1990s and divorced in 2006. He also holds Russian and UAE citizenship, owns a vineyard, and has written books and worked as a director and producer.

Julie Depardieu was born in 1973. She has followed in her parents’ footsteps as an actress and has also won César awards. She is well respected in French cinema. Depardieu has other children and half-siblings, but these two are the most well-known.

Legal troubles and what comes next?

Gerard Depardieu is currently under significant legal scrutiny. In May 2025, he was convicted of sexual assault against two women on the set of a film in 2021. He received an 18-month suspended sentence, a fine of around €29,040, and was added to France’s sex offender registry. He has said he will appeal the verdict.

Now, a new trial is set to begin. A French actress named Charlotte Arnould accuses him of rape that allegedly occurred in 2018. A judge has ordered a trial, but no date is set yet. Depardieu denies the charge.

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These legal problems may affect his public image and future work. Gerard Depardieu denies all charges, and the outcome will be determined by the upcoming trial. Given the seriousness of the case, all eyes are on the upcoming trial.

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