🔗 Share this article Misleading Claims on the Internet Damaged Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Testifies to Court The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a Paris court that inaccurate assertions online—among them the baseless theory that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life. Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of ten people facing charges for online harassment directed at the first lady. Effects on Daily Life Auzière explained that the first lady now is always concerned about her appearance, from her attire to the way she carries herself, due to the concern that every photograph might be misused to advance negative campaigns. "The consequence is that she constantly has to pay attention to her clothing, her posture, no matter what she's doing in everyday routine," she told the court. Those on Trial and Charges The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are in court for online harassment. Some had limited online influence, while others were more prominent. Each one is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. In certain cases, this involved comparing the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms. If convicted, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in prison. Consequences for Loved Ones She, a daughter from her mother's first marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "deterioration of her health" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness". She said, "Hardly a day passes when a person fails to mention these claims to her." Auzière emphasized the effects on her relatives, including her grandchildren being exposed to hurtful comments like "She is deceptive" or "She is actually a man". "She is unsure how to end it," Auzière remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is continually facing these assaults." Court Case Context The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a extended court case addressing the baseless theory that the first lady is supposedly a man. The Macrons have pursued a case in America alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the claim. The lawsuit asserts that the claim is totally unfounded and identifies that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's older brother. Accused Individuals' Statements During the trial, several defendants disputed the charges. A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as ironic. A well-known publicist claimed that his posts were meant to be "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could endanger "the right to speak freely". An art gallery owner said he shared posts as he believed it was a global issue with "implications for the country". Relationship Background The inaccurate claim regarding Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction in part because their union has often been a subject of discussion in digital spaces. Brigitte Macron, aged significantly older than her husband, first met him when serving as a instructor at the institution he attended. The connection between them developed through theatrical projects, and they wed in that year, subsequent to her separation. She wrapped up her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for her mother.