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Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a judicial body in Paris that false claims spread through social media—such as the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a attorney, appeared as a testifier in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants accused of digital bullying targeting the first lady.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

She testified that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, from her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the apprehension that any image might be distorted to advance malicious comments.

"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, irrespective of she's doing in her daily life," Auzière told the court.

Those on Trial and Charges

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are in court for internet-based bullying. Several had limited online influence, while others were better known.

All is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this included linking the age gap with her husband to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they could receive up to two years in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have led to a "decline of her health" and a "decline of her quality of life".

She said, "Not a day goes by when someone avoids discussing these claims to her."

Auzière emphasized the repercussions on the family, for example her grandchildren being exposed to malicious statements like "She is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to stop it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought anything, and she is constantly facing these assaults."

Court Case History

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a extended court case addressing the false claim that she was male.

The Macrons have initiated a US lawsuit for defamation against a media personality who amplified the theory.

The legal filing clarifies that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is really her sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, several defendants denied the accusations.

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, stated he "did not mean to cause harm" and referred to his social media content as satirical.
• A fiction writer argued that his posts were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could endanger "free speech".
• Another individual testified he shared information as he believed it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The false theory about the first lady's gender circulated partly because the Macrons' relationship has often been a topic of comment in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew him when working as a instructor at the institution he attended.

Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they married in the following year, after her divorce.

She wrapped up her testimony by expressing that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for the first lady.