Italian Paparazzi Photographer Accuses Gerard Depardieu of Assault in Central Rome

Italian paparazzi photographer accuses Gerard Depardieu of assault in Rome

A veteran Italian paparazzi photographer, Rino Barillari, has accused French actor Gerard Depardieu of assaulting him in central Rome after he took photos of the actor and his partner at a famous restaurant.

The incident occurred at Harry’s Bar on Via Veneto, where Barillari went to take photos of Depardieu having lunch with friends. Despite being asked to leave by Depardieu’s entourage, Barillari continued taking photos before retreating to the street outside.

According to Barillari, Depardieu’s partner, Magda Vavrusova, followed him outside and confronted him, with Depardieu then rushing out and allegedly punching the photographer three times, causing a cut to his head that required hospital attention.

Barillari reported the incident to the police, stating that Depardieu was a bully who couldn’t get away with his actions. However, Depardieu and Vavrusova have a different account of the altercation, claiming that Barillari had pushed them around.

In an interview with la Repubblica newspaper, Depardieu blamed the incident on Barillari, stating that he lost his balance and fell after being pushed by the photographer. However, journalist Gianni Riotta, who witnessed the altercation, disputed Depardieu’s version of events, describing how the actor had attacked Barillari.

Depardieu, a top French movie star, has faced numerous scandals in recent years, including allegations of sexual assault. He is set to go on trial in Paris in October for alleged sexual assaults against two women during a 2021 film shoot, which he has denied.

The police are currently investigating the incident in Rome, as conflicting reports from both parties continue to emerge. The altercation has added to the controversies surrounding Depardieu, further tarnishing his legacy in the entertainment industry.