False Assertions on the Internet Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Testifies to Judges

The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—including the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a attorney, appeared as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals accused of online harassment against her mother.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

She stated that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, such as her attire to her posture, because of the fear that every photograph may be distorted to support hateful attacks.

"The consequence is that she constantly has to pay attention to what she wears, her body language, no matter what her activities in day-to-day existence," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Charges

The defendants, in that age range, are facing charges for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while the rest were better known.

All is charged with spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's personal life. For some, this extended to linking her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they face a maximum of two years in incarceration.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's first marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "decline of her quality of life".

She testified, "Hardly a day goes by when a person avoids discussing the issue to her."

She emphasized the impact on loved ones, such as the kids hearing hurtful comments like "She is lying" or "She is actually a man".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly facing this abuse."

Legal Battle Background

This case is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight addressing the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is male.

The Macrons have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who spread the allegation.

The legal filing states that the allegation is totally unfounded and points out that the individual referenced is really Brigitte Macron's brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, a few individuals denied the allegations.

  • One defendant, holding a public position, asserted he "never intended to inflict damage" and described his posts as ironic.
  • A well-known publicist argued that his posts were intended as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the case could threaten "freedom of expression".
  • An art gallery owner explained he posted information because he felt it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's sex spread in part because their marriage has long been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

She, aged significantly older than her husband, first met him when she was a instructor at his secondary school.

The connection between them developed through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in that year, following her divorce.

She concluded her account by saying that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.

Charles Shields
Charles Shields

A software engineer and retro computing enthusiast with over 15 years of experience restoring vintage computers and documenting tech history.