French actor Gérard Depardieu is set to face trial in Rome over allegations of assaulting a paparazzo outside the famous Harry’s Bar in May. The incident reportedly occurred when Depardieu allegedly punched Rino Barillari, a veteran paparazzo known as the “King of Paparazzi,” multiple times in the face, leaving him hospitalized. Depardieu’s companion at the time, Magda Vavrusova, claims that the actor was defending her against Barillari’s aggression, while Barillari maintains that he was simply doing his job.
The trial will determine the facts surrounding the altercation, with Roman police investigating and reviewing security footage and eyewitness accounts. Depardieu, 76, denies the allegations, and his lawyer has disputed Barillari’s version of events. This incident adds to Depardieu’s existing legal troubles in France, where he faces sexual assault allegations, which he also denies.
Depardieu’s appearance in court comes amid growing scrutiny over his behavior, with some questioning his treatment of paparazzi and others expressing concern over the actor’s well-being. The outcome of the trial remains uncertain, but it may have implications for Depardieu’s future projects and public image.
