False Assertions on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Informs Judges

The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that false claims spread through social media—such as the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a attorney, appeared as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants accused of internet-based abuse targeting her mother.

Consequences on Daily Life

Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about how she looks, from her attire to the way she carries herself, due to the apprehension that every photograph might be misused to support hateful attacks.

"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to what she wears, how she holds herself, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière told the court.

Defendants and Charges

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while several more were better known.

All is charged with making malicious comments about the first lady's identity. Among them, this included linking the age gap with her husband to hurtful comparisons.

Upon being found guilty, they face up to two years in jail.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a family member from her mother's initial union, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "decline of her overall existence".

She explained, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person fails to mention the issue to her."

Auzière emphasized the impact on loved ones, such as her grandchildren hearing false assertions like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "She is your grandfather".

"She has no idea what to do about it," she remarked. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is permanently experiencing these attacks."

Court Case History

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the false claim that Brigitte Macron was male.

The couple have initiated a legal action in the United States over false statements involving a media personality who promoted the theory.

The legal filing clarifies that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is actually her older brother.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals rejected the allegations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, asserted he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and described his social media content as humorous.
• A well-known publicist claimed that his online activity were presented as "humor" and voiced worry that the trial could threaten "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant explained he shared posts because he felt it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's identity circulated to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has often been a point of interest online.

The first lady, being significantly older than her husband, first met the future president when she was a teacher at the institution he attended.

Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in that year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

Auzière concluded her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "whirlwind that never stops" for her mother.