🔗 Share this article

Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants allegedly involved in digital bullying targeting her mother.

Consequences on Daily Life

Auzière testified that her mother now is always concerned about how she looks, from her fashion choices to her posture, as a result of the apprehension that every photograph may be distorted to support malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she always must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière told the court.

Accused Individuals and Accusations

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Some had a small social media following, while others were better known.

Every defendant is accused of posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this included comparing the disparity in years with the French president to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to up to two years in prison.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the false claims have resulted in a "worsening of her health" and a "decline of her overall existence".

She explained, "Not a day goes by when someone avoids discussing this to her."

She emphasized the impact on her relatives, including her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "She is lying" or "She is actually a man".

"She has no idea how to end it," she testified. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue anything, and she is continually experiencing this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings History

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a broader legal battle addressing the baseless theory that she was a man.

The couple have also filed a US lawsuit for defamation involving a conservative podcaster who promoted the theory.

The case clarifies that the allegation is totally unfounded and notes that the person cited is actually Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, some of the accused denied the accusations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, asserted he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and described his posts as satirical.
• A well-known publicist argued that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the case could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• An art gallery owner said he disseminated posts because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim about Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction in part because their union has often been a topic of comment on the internet.

She, being significantly older than the president, originally knew the future president when she was a teacher at the institution he attended.

Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they wed in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière wrapped up her statement by saying that the false claims have produced a "chaos that never stops" for her mother.