New developments have emerged in the transphobic rumor case involving Brigitte Macron. Two women accused of defamation have recently been acquitted on appeal, a decision that the First Lady’s lawyer firmly disputes.
This unexpected case has lingered around Brigitte Macron for several years. In December 2021, a lengthy YouTube video propagated a bizarre and violent theory suggesting that the wife of the President of France was actually born Jean-Michel Trogneux, her own brother, and had undergone gender reassignment. The two women behind this “investigation,” Natacha Rey, identifying herself as an independent journalist, and Delphine Jégousse, known as the medium Amandine Roy, spread their unfounded claims accompanied by dubious “revelations,” alleging to unveil a so-called “state secret.” The video went viral, reaching audiences beyond France.
In response to the defamatory content, Brigitte Macron filed a lawsuit. In September 2024, the two defendants were initially convicted, receiving a suspended fine of 500 euros and ordered to pay over 13,000 euros in damages.
This recent acquittal raises questions about the handling of misinformation and the protection of public figures against false claims. It highlights the ongoing challenges associated with the spread of unfounded conspiracy theories in the digital age. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of combating misinformation, which can have lasting and harmful effects on individuals’ lives.