Brigitte Macron’s Daughter Testifies on Impact of Online Harassment

Brigitte Macron’s daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified in a Paris court on October 10, 2023, regarding the detrimental effects of false claims circulated online about her mother. The allegations, which claim that the French first lady was born a man, have significantly impacted her quality of life, leading to heightened anxiety over her public image and daily activities.

During the trial involving ten individuals accused of online harassment, Auzière described how the relentless spread of misinformation has forced her mother to be constantly aware of her appearance. “She systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, how she holds herself,” Auzière stated. This heightened scrutiny stems from malicious social media posts, including personal photographs of Brigitte Macron that were shared with derogatory comments.

A total of eight men and two women, aged between 41 and 60, are facing charges for creating or reposting content that misrepresents Brigitte Macron’s gender and sexuality. Some defendants had modest social media followings, while others operated more prominent accounts. The accusations include making highly offensive comparisons between the age difference between Brigitte Macron and her husband, French President Emmanuel Macron, to “paedophilia.” If convicted, the defendants could face up to two years in prison.

Auzière expressed concern about the emotional toll the situation has taken on her mother, stating that it has led to a “deterioration of her health” and overall quality of life. She pointed out that the attacks do not only affect Brigitte Macron but also have repercussions for the family. “Her grandchildren hear what is being said: ‘Your grandmother is lying’ or ‘Your grandmother is your grandfather,’” she elaborated.

Brigitte Macron’s ongoing battle with online harassment is part of a larger legal strategy, which includes a defamation lawsuit in the United States against conservative podcaster Candace Owens. The Macrons claim that Owens perpetuated the false narrative that Brigitte is a man named Jean-Michel Trogneux, who is, in fact, Brigitte’s older brother. Trogneux, who is 80 years old, resides in Amiens, France, where he grew up with his sister in a family known for its chocolate business.

During the trial, Auzière emphasized that the claims about her mother’s gender are like a “whirlwind that never stops.” She stated that Brigitte is perpetually on alert, fearing that any image of her could be manipulated to fuel further hateful attacks. Auzière remarked on the impossibility of leading a normal life while being subjected to constant scrutiny and questioning of her identity.

The trial also featured testimonies from defendants, including Jean-Luc M, a retired business owner and deputy mayor, who was questioned about his social media posts referring to Brigitte Macron as “our first ladyboy.” He denied any intent to cause harm. Aurélien Poirson-Atlan, a publicist and fiction writer, defended his posts as “satire” and argued that they reflected a cultural tradition in France. He suggested that Brigitte Macron should have published photographs of herself during pregnancy to dispel the rumors.

The unfounded theory regarding Brigitte Macron’s gender gained traction partly due to the public interest in her relationship with President Macron, which has been the subject of online commentary due to their 24-year age difference. The Macrons have consistently maintained that their relationship has always been within legal and ethical boundaries.

As this case unfolds in Paris, the broader implications of online harassment and misinformation continue to resonate, highlighting the challenges faced by public figures in the digital age. The legal outcomes may set significant precedents regarding accountability for online behavior and the protection of personal dignity against malicious claims.