Key Highlights
- Brigitte Macron has filed a complaint for cyberharassment against those spreading rumors about her gender transition.
- Ten individuals will be tried in Paris on charges related to publishing and/or sharing content alleging she is actually her brother Jean-Michel Trogneux.
- The conspiracy theory emerged after Emmanuel Macron’s victory in the 2017 presidential election and has gained traction through online trolls.
- A well-known spreader of these rumors, Aurélien Poirson-Atlan, will be among those on trial as “Zoé Sagan.”
Background on the Case
The legal proceedings against those who have spread false information about President Emmanuel Macron’s wife, Brigitte Macron, are set to begin in Paris. These trials come amid years of silence from the Macrons regarding such rumors.
According to reports, the first lady filed a complaint for cyberharassment against an unspecified individual (“against X”) in August 2024. This action follows months of online attacks and misinformation suggesting that she had undergone a gender transition and was, therefore, her brother Jean-Michel Trogneux.
The Rumor’s Rise to Prominence
This conspiracy theory gained momentum after Emmanuel Macron secured victory in the 2017 presidential election. Since then, it has persisted due to the involvement of trolls—online users seeking controversy—who have perpetuated this claim across various social media platforms.
These individuals allegedly circulated numerous unfounded statements and images suggesting that Brigitte Macron is, in reality, a man. The case will involve ten defendants who are accused of publishing or sharing such content on the internet.
The Trial and Its Implications
On Monday, October 27, and Tuesday, October 28, 2025, the trial is scheduled to take place. Among those appearing in court is Aurélien Poirson-Atlan, better known by his online handle “Zoé Sagan.” His involvement as a prominent disseminator of these rumors highlights the scale and persistence of this conspiracy theory.
The Macrons are aiming to address the ongoing diffusion of misinformation concerning Brigitte Macron’s identity. By bringing these cases to trial, they hope to combat the pervasive spread of such false information online.
Expert Analysis
Political analysts suggest that these trials reflect a broader effort by the government to counteract disinformation campaigns targeting prominent figures. Such actions are part of a strategic approach to maintaining public trust and addressing the challenges posed by online misinformation.
“This case is significant because it underscores the evolving nature of political discourse in the digital age,” says Dr. Marie Dupont, a communications expert at the University of Paris. “The Macrons’ decision to take legal action sends a strong message that such rumors will not be tolerated.”
The outcome of these trials could have far-reaching implications for how political figures navigate online harassment and misinformation in France and beyond.
