Who’s Behind the Online Attacks on Brigitte Macron?

A Paris court has opened proceedings against ten defendants accused of orchestrating a campaign of online harassment targeting Brigitte Macron, France’s First Lady.

The group—eight men and two women, aged between 41 and 60—allegedly spread false claims about her gender and personal life through social media posts and YouTube videos that drew tens of thousands of views.

The case stems from conspiracy theories that falsely claim Macron was born male, a rumor amplified by far-right networks in France and abroad. Prosecutors say the coordinated online campaign caused harm to her physical and mental health, according to the court’s presiding judge.

Among the accused is Delphine Jegousse, who posted a four-hour video in 2021 that fueled the conspiracy. The defendants include teachers, public employees, and online influencers.

The Macrons have filed defamation suits in both France and the United States, including one against U.S. commentator Candace Owens, who repeated the false claims to her millions of followers.

The trial is viewed as a test of France’s legal framework for addressing online hate and misinformation targeting public officials. A verdict is expected in the coming weeks.