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Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—such as the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a attorney, appeared as a witness in the trial of 10 individuals allegedly involved in digital bullying targeting her mother.

Effects on Daily Life

Auzière explained that her mother now worries constantly about her appearance, including her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the concern that every photograph might be distorted to advance hateful attacks.

"The consequence is that she always must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, irrespective of her activities in her daily life," Auzière testified.

Defendants and Allegations

The defendants, in that age range, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Several had a small social media following, while the rest were better known.

Every defendant is charged with making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this involved linking the age gap with the French president to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Family Impact

She, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She said, "Hardly a day goes by when a person avoids discussing these claims to her."

She emphasized the effects on the family, for example her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She's not elected, she has not sought public attention, and she is constantly subjected to this abuse."

Court Case Background

The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a extended court case against the false claim that she is supposedly a man.

They have also filed a legal action in the United States over false statements targeting a political commentator who amplified the allegation.

The case clarifies that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is actually her older brother.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, several defendants disputed the allegations.

• A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his social media content as ironic.
• Another defendant claimed that his social media shares were intended as "irony" and voiced worry that the trial could threaten "the right to speak freely".
• An art gallery owner explained he shared content as he believed it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The baseless rumor about Brigitte Macron's sex circulated to some extent because their marriage has long been a topic of comment online.

The first lady, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered him when working as a educator at his secondary school.

Their relationship evolved through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in that year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière wrapped up her account by stating that the false claims have produced a "storm that does not cease" for the first lady.