Inaccurate Allegations Online Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to Court

The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—such as the baseless theory that she was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants facing charges for online harassment directed at Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Personal Routine

Auzière explained that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her demeanor, including the clothes she wears to how she stands, due to the fear that each snapshot may be distorted to advance malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she systematically has to pay attention to her clothing, her body language, irrespective of her activities in her daily life," she told the court.

Those on Trial and Allegations

Eight men and two women, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. A few had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.

Each one is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. For some, this involved comparing her age difference with the French president to offensive labels.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

She, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

She said, "Hardly a day goes by when an individual fails to mention this to her."

She pointed out the effects on the family, such as her grandchildren hearing malicious statements like "She is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière stated. "She holds no office, she has not sought public attention, and she is permanently facing these attacks."

Court Case Background

This case is the latest phase in a extended court case targeting the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is transgender.

The couple have initiated a case in America for defamation targeting a media personality who promoted the theory.

The case clarifies that the claim is entirely inaccurate and identifies that the individual referenced is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, several defendants rejected the charges.

  • A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "did not mean to cause harm" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
  • A fiction writer stated that his social media shares were intended as "irony" and expressed concern that the trial could undermine "the right to speak freely".
  • A third defendant explained he shared content since he thought it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim about Brigitte Macron's sex gained traction in part because their marriage has often been a topic of comment online.

She, who is 24 years older than the president, first met him when serving as a instructor at his secondary school.

The connection between them evolved through drama activities, and they wed in that year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière finished her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.

Joseph Gill
Joseph Gill

Elara Vance is a tech analyst and digital strategist with over a decade of experience in emerging technologies and innovation consulting.