The Montreal courthouse fell silent Monday morning as testimony began in the civil trial against Gilbert Rozon, the disgraced founder of the comedy empire Just For Laughs. Five women have come forward with allegations of sexual assault and harassment spanning decades, seeking a combined $10 million in damages from the once-celebrated entertainment mogul.
Rozon, 69, arrived at the courthouse flanked by legal representatives but remained expressionless as proceedings commenced. The media presence was substantial, reflecting the high-profile nature of a case that has sent shockwaves through Quebec’s entertainment industry and beyond.
“This trial represents a pivotal moment in Quebec’s reckoning with sexual misconduct allegations in positions of power,” explained legal analyst Martine Desjardins, who is following the case closely. “The plaintiffs have demonstrated remarkable courage in pursuing justice through civil proceedings after criminal avenues proved difficult.”
The allegations against Rozon date back as far as 1980, with the most recent occurring in 2016. Each plaintiff has detailed encounters where they claim Rozon used his considerable influence in the entertainment industry to facilitate inappropriate sexual conduct. Many of the women reported hesitating to come forward earlier due to concerns about career repercussions in an industry where Rozon wielded substantial power.
Court documents reveal that Rozon has consistently denied all allegations, characterizing the encounters as either consensual or fabricated. His defense team indicated they will challenge the credibility of each accuser and question the timing of the allegations, which emerged publicly during the height of the #MeToo movement in 2017.
The civil proceedings follow a complex legal journey. In 2020, Rozon was acquitted in a criminal case involving a separate sexual assault allegation from 1980. That verdict hinged on reasonable doubt rather than an explicit finding of innocence, leaving the door open for civil action where the burden of proof is lower.
Patricia Tulasne, an actress and one of the plaintiffs who has chosen to speak publicly, testified first. Her voice occasionally wavering but resolute, she detailed an alleged 1994 assault that she claims has had lasting psychological impacts on her life and career.
“For decades, I carried this burden alone, believing I wouldn’t be believed or that speaking out would end my career,” Tulasne testified. “Today is about reclaiming my voice and my truth.”
The trial has broader implications for Quebec’s entertainment industry and has already prompted significant changes at Just For Laughs. Following the initial allegations, Rozon sold his majority stake in the festival, which has since implemented comprehensive harassment policies and reporting mechanisms.
Legal experts note that regardless of the outcome, the case represents an important shift in how sexual misconduct allegations are addressed in Canadian courts. “Civil proceedings have become an increasingly utilized avenue for those seeking justice when criminal charges aren’t laid or don’t result in conviction,” noted McGill University law professor Catherine McKenzie.
The proceedings are expected to continue for several weeks, with each plaintiff scheduled to provide testimony. Judge Donald Bisson, who is presiding over the case, has imposed strict guidelines to maintain decorum and respect for all parties involved.
As this landmark trial unfolds in Montreal, many are asking: Will this case represent a turning point in how powerful figures are held accountable for alleged sexual misconduct, and what lasting impact might it have on how such cases are handled in Canada’s legal system?
