The daughter of French First Lady Brigitte Macron, Tiphaine Auzière, has given testimony regarding the severe impact of cyberbullying on her mother’s life. During the second and final day of a trial in Paris, Auzière described how online harassment, including false claims about her mother’s gender, has led to a noticeable deterioration in her mother’s well-being.
Auzière stated, “She cannot ignore the horrible things said about her,” as she detailed the psychological toll of the alleged bullying. The trial involves ten individuals accused of posting malicious comments online that not only question the gender identity of Brigitte Macron but also link the 24-year age difference between her and her husband, Emmanuel Macron, to inappropriate allegations.
Allegations and Defendants
The comments made by the defendants have reportedly been viewed tens of thousands of times. Among those on trial are a teacher, a computer scientist, and an elected official, all of whom argue that their posts were intended as humor or satire. If convicted, they could face up to two years in prison.
“I’d like to express what her life looks like since she was the target of massive cyberbullying. This has led to a deterioration in her living conditions,” Auzière explained. She further highlighted the misuse of images of her mother online, stating that Brigitte Macron now feels compelled to be cautious about her clothing and public appearances.
Family Impact and Legal Actions
Brigitte Macron was not present at the trial, and a verdict is expected later. Auzière also emphasized the broader consequences of the cyberbullying on the family, noting that her children and grandchildren hear disparaging remarks at school, such as, “Your grandmother is a man.” She expressed her frustration, saying, “I don’t know how to make it stop.”
The Macrons have faced persistent conspiracy theories regarding Brigitte Macron, including unfounded claims that she was born a man named Jean-Michel Trogneux. This name is notably associated with her brother. When asked about her uncle, Auzière confirmed, “I saw him a few months ago and he was doing very well.”
In a separate legal action, the Macrons filed a defamation suit in July 2023 in a Delaware court against Candace Owens, a conservative influencer. Their legal team seeks substantial damages if Owens continues to propagate claims regarding Brigitte’s gender identity.
Since their marriage in 2007, Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron have navigated public scrutiny, having first met when he was a student and she was his teacher. Emmanuel Macron, now 47, has served as France’s president since 2017.
