Macron Takes Legal Action Against Candace Owens Over Controversial Claim About France’s First Lady

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, have launched a defamation lawsuit in the U.S. against right-wing influencer Candace Owens. This comes after Owens claimed that Brigitte is male, sparking a contentious debate.

In their lawsuit filed in Delaware Superior Court, the Macrons allege that Owens has run a “campaign of global humiliation.” They argue that her misleading statements aim to boost her podcast and fan base. Among the allegations is that Brigitte was born with the name Jean-Michel Trogneux, which is actually her older brother’s name.

The lawsuit highlights the personal toll this has taken on the Macrons. They stated that whenever they step outside, they face the impact of these false claims. They describe the situation as “invasive” and “dehumanizing.”

Owens has not publicly responded as of now, and Macron’s office has also chosen not to comment.

Interestingly, this lawsuit is uncommon for a world leader. U.S. President Donald Trump has filed several defamation suits, but very few other leaders have taken similar actions. Public figures must prove “actual malice” in defamation claims, meaning they need to demonstrate that the accused knew what they said was false or acted recklessly regarding the truth.

Lawsuits like this shine a light on the increasing challenges of misinformation in today’s social media landscape. The rise of platforms where anyone can share information—and, at times, misinformation—has made it easier for such claims to spread. In fact, a recent Pew Research study found that 64% of Americans believe misinformation is a significant problem in the country.

As this case unfolds, it raises important questions about accountability and the responsibility individuals and influencers have when sharing information. How this incident affects the Macrons, Owens, and the broader discussion around defamation remains to be seen. For now, the outcome will likely depend on how the courts interpret the allegations and the nature of public discourse today.



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