Actress who accused Hollywood star of sexual assault takes her own life

14 December 2023 , 07:25

1045     0

Emmanuelle Debever previously accused Gerard Depardieu of sexual assault

Actress Emmanuelle Debever has taken her own life after accusing Hollywood star Gerard Depardieu of allegedly sexually assaulting her, French media has announced.

Emmanuelle played Louison in 1982 film Danton alongside Depardieu, later leaving the spotlight after a promising start to her career. French newspaper Liberation has reported the star has died aged 60.

It was in June 2019 that she penned accusations on Facebook, sharing a picture of herself with Gerard on the set of Danton, in which she played his younger wife. "Holy Monster had quite a few things going on during this shoot... Enjoying the privacy of inside a caravan."

Gerard Depardieu continues to strongly deny allegations (AFP via Getty Images)

"Sliding his big paw under my skirt to feel better to speak," she added. "Me, not letting myself be made." Depardieu strongly denied accusations, telling French newspaper Le Figaro he has "never, ever abused a woman".

"I can no longer consent to what I hear, what I have read about myself for several months," he said. "I finally want to tell you my truth. I have never, ever abused a woman. Hurting a woman would be like kicking my own mother in the stomach."

NYPD Blue star Austin Majors found dead at homeless shelter aged 27

Emmanuelle is thought to have died on December 7. It was on the same day a documentary on Depardieu allegations aired on TV Channel France 2 titled Gerard Depardieu: The Fall of the Ogre.

Other accusations against the 74-year-old include two counts of rape by another woman in 2018. She claims he assaulted her when she was 22. In December 2020, he was placed under formal investigation but was not jailed.

Depardieu continues to strongly deny allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse waged against him by his former female co-stars. "All this is affecting me. Worse, it is extinguishing me," he added in his letter to Le Figaro.

If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email [email protected] or visit their site to find your local branch

Harry Rutter