Legendary French actor Gerard Depardieu, 69, has been accused of rape and sexual assault, according to a new report from the Associated Press and French newspaper Le Parisien.
The accusation comes from a 22-year-old woman, who claims that Depardieu assaulted her twice at his home in Paris, on August 7 and again on August 13.
Related: Trump Supporter Arrested For Death Threats To Journalists
According to a French judicial official, the woman first filed a complaint on Monday, August 27 in the southern French city of Aix-en-Provence.
Prosecutors in Paris began to work on the case two days later — this past Wednesday.
The woman was not identified publicly by the outlets, other than being “a comedian and dancer.”
Depardieu’s attorney, Herve Temime, told French media that the actor “absolutely denies any rape, any sexual assault, any crime,” and further that he was “shocked” when the allegations were made against him.
Temime continued (below), arguing the crime was the “opposite” of his client’s personality:
“I have strong elements to show that no offense took place. He will obviously participate in the investigation and answer the questions … I regret that this investigation was not kept secret as usual.”
We’ll see about that.
For now, French officials continue to investigate.
Related: Arrest Problems For Teen Mom 2 Star Jenelle Evans’ Ex
Depardieu is a huge name in the French film community; he’s had a prolific career, with more than 234 acting credits including The Man In The Iron Mask, 1492: Conquest of Paradise, Danton, and The Count Of Monte Cristo.
He was nominated for an Oscar for his role in Cyrano de Bergerac in 1991, as well, and he won a Golden Globe the same year for his performance in Green Card.
We’ll continue to follow this story and keep you updated as it winds through the investigative stages.
[Image via WENN.]
