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The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, testified to a Paris court that misleading allegations spread through social media—including the groundless claim that the French first lady was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.

She, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the court case of a group of defendants accused of internet-based abuse directed at Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Personal Routine

Auzière explained that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about her demeanor, including her fashion choices to how she stands, due to the concern that every photograph could be distorted to support hateful attacks.

"The consequence is that she systematically needs to be careful to her clothing, how she holds herself, regardless of her activities in her daily life," she informed the judges.

Defendants and Accusations

Eight men and two women, in that age range, are in court for online harassment. Several had a small social media following, while others were better known.

All is accused of spreading defamatory content about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this included linking the disparity in years with the French president to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they could receive up to two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her physical state" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when someone does not talk these claims to her."

Auzière pointed out the repercussions on her relatives, such as the kids learning about malicious statements like "Your grandmother is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She is unsure what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for anything, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."

Court Case Background

The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight against the false claim that the first lady is male.

They have pursued a legal action in the United States for defamation involving a media personality who amplified the allegation.

The case clarifies that the allegation is totally unfounded and points out that the name mentioned is really her sibling.

Trial Testimonies

Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused denied the charges.

• An individual, holding a public position, claimed he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• Another defendant stated that his online activity were intended as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could threaten "the right to speak freely".
• An art gallery owner said he shared content since he thought it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's gender circulated in part because their union has long been a topic of comment on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, who is two decades older than the president, first met him when working as a educator at his secondary school.

Their bond developed through theatrical projects, and they married in 2007, after Brigitte Macron's separation.

She concluded her account by stating that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "whirlwind that does not cease" for her mother.