Macrons to Present Evidence in Court to Counter Defamation Claim

Thu Sep 18 2025 11:22:37 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, are set to provide photographic and scientific evidence in a U.S. court to defend against defamation claims made by right-wing influencer Candace Owens, who has alleged that Brigitte was born male.

Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron will show photographic and scientific proof in a U.S. court to refute defamation claims made by Candace Owens, who has falsely asserted that Brigitte is a man. Their attorney, Tom Clare, stated the claims have been distressing for Brigitte and emphasized their commitment to setting the record straight. The lawsuit highlights broader issues around misinformation and the demands of defending one's reputation in the public eye.

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, are planning to present photographic and scientific evidence to a U.S. court to prove Mrs. Macron is a woman. Their lawyer states their intention comes in light of a defamation suit against right-wing influencer Candace Owens, who has promoted the contentious claim that Brigitte Macron was born male.

Owens' legal team has initiated a motion to dismiss the claim, but the Macrons' attorney, Tom Clare, highlighted the emotional impact of the unfounded allegations on Brigitte, describing them as incredibly upsetting and a distraction for the French president.

Clare shared insights on the BBC's Fame Under Fire podcast, stating, When your family is under attack, it wears on you... he's not immune from that because he's the president of a country. He assured that expert testimony that will come out that will be scientific in nature will be part of their court presentation, although details of the evidence remain undisclosed for now.

Brigitte is reportedly committed to revealing the necessary proof to put this issue to rest, showcasing a determination to protect her reputation despite the challenges of such a public process.

Further, they possess images of Brigitte during her pregnancies and raising their children, which they intend to submit in court as part of their evidence. The allegations initially gained traction from fringe internet circles, particularly after a viral YouTube video by French bloggers in 2021.

In 2024, the Macrons won a defamation case in France against those bloggers, but the ruling was overturned on appeal on the grounds of freedom of expression. The couple is now appealing this decision while also taking legal action against Owens in July 2025.

In her defense, Owens has articulated that her assertions are backed by her beliefs, emphasizing the importance of free speech. This case raises crucial conversations about the responsibilities that come with public discourse, especially regarding personal and disparaging claims.