Trial Begins for Ten Accused of Harassing Brigitte Macron Online

PARIS, France — Ten individuals are on trial in Paris for the online harassment of Brigitte Macron, the wife of President Emmanuel Macron. The trial, which commenced Monday, follows accusations that the group spread malicious comments regarding her gender and sexuality.

Prosecutors allege the defendants, eight men and two women aged between 41 and 60, engaged in a campaign of cyberbullying that included derogatory remarks linking Brigitte’s age difference with her husband to “pedophilia.” The charges stem from a legal complaint filed in August 2024, which led to arrests in early 2025.

The group includes various professionals, such as an elected official, a teacher, and an advertising executive known on social media as “Zoé Sagan.” The latter’s account was suspended after multiple complaints regarding harmful content. The defendants have been characterized as active social media users, with some posts attracting significant attention.

Brigitte and Emmanuel Macron filed a separate defamation lawsuit in July 2025 in Delaware against conservative podcaster Candace Owens. This lawsuit cites Owens for allegedly promoting unfounded claims suggesting Brigitte was born a man.

The Macrons’ complaints indicate that they have faced numerous conspiracy theories, particularly one claiming Brigitte was born a man named Jean-Michel Trogneux. This particular narrative has been labeled as a “campaign of global humiliation” by the Macrons’ legal team.

The trial is expected to last two days, and a verdict is anticipated shortly thereafter. Brigitte has previously described the online comments as “hateful” and harmful, particularly for her grandchildren.

Among the defendants is Aurélien Poirson-Atlan, who is known for sharing content associated with conspiracy theories. The allegations against them include making degrading remarks that go beyond humor, considering the psychological toll on Brigitte Macron.

The case highlights ongoing issues around online harassment and the challenges public figures face in relation to malicious rumors. A verdict will be delivered in due time, with implications for both the defendants and the ongoing discourse regarding Brigitte Macron’s identity.