🔗 Share this article False Allegations on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Informs the Tribunal Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—including the baseless theory that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being. She, a attorney, served as a witness in the trial of 10 individuals facing charges for internet-based abuse against her mother. Consequences on Personal Routine She testified that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, including her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the fear that every photograph might be distorted to advance hateful attacks. "The outcome is that she constantly has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, regardless of her actions in her daily life," she testified. Those on Trial and Allegations The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for online harassment. Some had modest digital reach, while others were better known. All is charged with making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this involved equating the disparity in years with her husband to hurtful comparisons. If found responsible, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in jail. Family Impact Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her physical state" and a "decline of her quality of life". She said, "Hardly a day passes when someone avoids discussing these claims to her." Auzière highlighted the repercussions on the family, including the kids being exposed to hurtful comments like "She is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather". "She is unsure how to stop it," she testified. "She's not elected, she has not sought public attention, and she is continually experiencing these assaults." Legal Battle History The Paris trial is the latest phase in a extended court case addressing the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron was male. They have also filed a US lawsuit alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who promoted the claim. The lawsuit states that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the person cited is actually her sibling. Trial Testimonies In court, some of the accused denied the allegations. A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as ironic. A well-known publicist argued that his online activity were intended as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could threaten "free speech". An art gallery owner explained he disseminated information as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation". Past Context The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction in part because the Macrons' relationship has often been a subject of discussion on the internet. Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, first met Emmanuel Macron when she was a teacher at his secondary school. The connection between them grew through theatrical projects, and they wed in the following year, after her divorce. She wrapped up her testimony by stating that the inaccurate allegations have created a "storm that continues endlessly" for the first lady.