A video featuring French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, has recently gone viral, sparking a resurgence in baseless rumors about Brigitte's gender identity. The footage, taken during their visit in Vietnam, captures a playful moment between them on an airplane, which has unexpectedly led social media users back down a path speculating whether Brigitte might be transgender.
Filmed by an Associated Press photographer, this clip shows President Macron at a plane doorway in Hanoi. In a playful exchange, Brigitte gently pushes Emmanuel's face, creating a buzz online with "Is Brigitte Macron trans" trending on social media.
Unrelenting rumors and underlying misogyny
These rumors aren't new—they're part and parcel with a stubborn narrative that keeps popping up, fueled by misinformation and misogynistic undertones. Back in March 2024, during an International Women's Day event in Paris, Emmanuel Macron openly criticized these rumors as "fabricated scenarios" that invade personal privacy and spread like wildfire.
Macron said, “The worst thing about false information and fabricated scenarios? People eventually believe them, and they invade your personal space.” He emphasized that these rumors are a reflection on a broader societal issue: online misogyny that women face daily.
Tackling misinformation with legal action
The rumors against Brigitte have been primarily pushed by far-right groups aiming at undermining Emmanuel Macron's political credibility. In 2021, Brigitte decided enough was enough and took legal action against Amandine Roy and Natacha Rey, who were instrumental in perpetuating these lies.
Roy and Rey falsely alleged that Brigitte was transgender and hadn't given birth. This narrative found a platform in "Faits et Documents," a far-right publication. Even though these lies were debunked, they gained traction when both women shared their allegations in a lengthy interview that garnered attention before being removed.
The so-called "deadname," Jean-Michael Trogneux, was another complete lie. As reported by Le Monde, Trogneux was simply Brigitte's maiden name; they tied it incorrectly in their conspiracy, as this name actually belongs her brother.
Holding perpetrators accountable
In February 2023, a French court found Roy and Rey guilty on libel charges, resulting in symbolic fines. This verdict sends a clear message about taking responsibility when spreading false information.
Tiphaine Auzière, Brigitte's youngest daughter, expressed her dismay over how such rumors impact society. She remarked, “The boldness with which these things are claimed and believed—anyone can say anything about anyone and it can be tough and time-consuming undoing those lies.”
Broader impacts and comparisons
Brigitte Macron isn't alone when it comes this kind speculations. Prominent figures like Michelle Obama and New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern have also been targeted by similar rumors. These conspiracies often reveal misogynistic and transphobic undertones, pinpointing broader societal issues around gender identity and prejudice.
Emmanuel Macron also wasn't spared from false rumors about his own sexuality, despite having taken progressive steps such as appointing Gabriel Attal, France's first openly gay prime minister. These politically charged rumors often aim distract from real achievements.
Ultimately, these persistent and baseless rumors about Brigitte being transgender are just that—baseless. They're a reminder that detractors can use misinformation and prejudice as weapons in political and personal attacks, which only serves further societal division and stereotypes.
For those committed supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, it's critical challenge and oppose these rumors while championing truth and inclusivity. Promoting understanding and respect across all identities remains essential fostering a more inclusive society.
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