We hadn't seen him in the flesh since the broadcast of “Additional Investigation” in December.
In this France 2 program, we saw Gérard Depardieu, then in North Korea, multiplying misogynistic and insulting remarks while addressing women.
The start of a media tidal wave for the actor, who had since chosen silence and discretion as a response.
But at the beginning of February, it is in Dubai that the French cinema star has been seen in recent days.
No more discretion.
In the videos published this weekend by comedian, actor and boxer Farid Khider, on social networks, we can see the two friends in a restaurant, in a swimming pool, around a sports car or in a cafe.
Which is somewhat inconsistent with the comments of some of those close to him after the start of the controversy.
“I met Julie Depardieu (
the actor's daughter
) one evening, we spoke at length and she told me that Gérard was very isolated, that there were a lot of things that were ready-made ideas which, unfortunately, began to gallop, until he was pilloried.
That it was too much for him, and that he was a little lost,” said actress Brigitte Fossey.
According to Julie Depardieu, who spoke on Cnews in mid-December, Gérard Depardieu is "the victim of an unprecedented manhunt", that of someone who is "radically excluded from this society because he has the freedom to speak as he wishes.
@faridkhiderofficiel
#faridkhider #gerarddepardieu #dubai #amis #fidelite #foryouall
♬ African King - Cecile
@faridkhiderofficiel
#faridkhider #gerarddepardieu #dubai #friends #family #jealous
♬ original sound - faridkhider
These videos, although not reprehensible, obviously caused a reaction.
“In the end,
at its worst
, it’s rubbish… I think justice is coming,” wrote a user in a comment.
“According to Gégé's ( sic
) defenders
in the media, he is on the verge of suicide, apparently he is more in
I love my life
mode ,” notes another.
At the beginning of January, 150 artists signed a platform to denounce the “impunity” of Gérard Depardieu.
“In the name of art, certain voices are raised to defend Gérard Depardieu, insinuating that his talent should shield him from any criticism, and even excuse him for his intolerable behavior.
All this will not be in our name,” thundered these personalities from the cultural sector.
A few days earlier, more than 2,500 artists had signed a column criticizing the actor's support.
Emmanuel Macron himself caused controversy by supporting Gérard Depardieu.