On Oct. 27, Paris courts will hear Brigitte Macron’s libel lawsuit against 10 alleged defamers, amid a backdrop of conspiracy theories about the French first lady’s gender.
Paris Trial Begins
On Oct. 27, courts in Paris will hear Brigitte Macron’s lawsuit against ten alleged defamers, including eight men and two women aged 41‑60. The case stems from online harassment over comments about her gender, sexuality and alleged relationship with her brother, Jean‑Michel Trogneux. The defendants deny wrongdoing and face up to two years in prison.
Key Accused
Among the defendants is 41‑year‑old Aurélien Poirson‑Atlan, a publicist known on social media as “Zoé Sagan,” linked to conspiracy‑theory circles. Also accused is 51‑year‑old Delphine J., who presents herself as a spiritual medium under the pseudonym Amandine Roy. A former 2024 judgment had ordered them to pay damages to the first lady and her brother, but an appellate court overturned that ruling, finding the claims did not meet defamation criteria.
U.S. Libel Case
Separate litigation has been filed in the United States by Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron against right‑wing podcaster Candace Owens, alleging false statements that Brigitte was born male. The plaintiffs argue the allegations amount to a “global shame campaign” and worldwide intimidation. Owning her claims, a U.S. court is expected to rule on the matter.
Owens’ Free‑Speech Defense
Candace Owens insists her remarks are truthful and cites freedom of expression. Her lawyers seek dismissal, arguing the case should not be heard in Delaware because their client’s companies are not incorporated there. They claim proceeding in the state would impose significant financial and logistical hardship.