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Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a Paris court that false claims spread through social media—including the baseless theory that the French first lady was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals accused of digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Effects on Everyday Activities

Auzière explained that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about how she looks, including her fashion choices to her posture, as a result of the fear that any image could be distorted to advance hateful attacks.

"The result is that she constantly needs to be careful to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of her activities in everyday routine," she informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Charges

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for digital abuse. Some had a small social media following, while others were more prominent.

Every defendant is accused of making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this included equating the disparity in years with the French president to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in jail.

Family Impact

Auzière, a family member from her mother's first marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "worsening of her well-being" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Not a day goes by when an individual does not talk these claims to her."

She emphasized the effects on loved ones, for example her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "She is your grandfather".

"She is unsure what to do about it," Auzière stated. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue anything, and she is permanently facing this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings Context

This case represents a recent development in a extended court case against the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is a man.

The couple have also filed a US lawsuit alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the theory.

The legal filing asserts that the allegation is completely false and points out that the person cited is really her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

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

• An individual, serving as a local official, claimed he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his online statements as ironic.
• Another defendant argued that his social media shares were presented as "irony" and expressed concern that the case could endanger "freedom of expression".
• Another individual explained he shared content as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim regarding the first lady's sex spread in part because their marriage has long been a topic of comment in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, aged 24 years older than her husband, originally knew the future president when working as a educator at his school.

Their bond evolved through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in 2007, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

She finished her account by stating that the baseless rumors have created a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.