🇫🇷 French First Couple Sue Candace Owens Over Transgender Conspiracy Claims
Defamation lawsuit filed
French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron have launched a defamation lawsuit in Delaware Superior Court against U.S. conservative commentator Candace Owens. They accuse her of leading a “global humiliation campaign” with conspiracy-driven allegations, primarily claiming that Brigitte was born male and is transgender.
Owens doubles down
Owens responded via a YouTube video, reaffirming her claims:
“You were born a man and you will die a man.”
She also challenged the Macrons to medical testing and defended her actions as protected free.
Allegations and campaign details
Owens produced an eight-part podcast series titled “Becoming Brigitte”, pushed theories about identity theft, incest allegations, and CIA involvement, and monetized the content with merchandise featuring slogans like “Hombre del Año” (Man of the Year) alongside Brigitte’s image.
Legal claims and damages sought
The 22-count complaint alleges Owens acted with “actual malice,” publishing falsehoods for notoriety and profit. The Macrons seek unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, aiming to hold Owens accountable for the global spread of hateful misinformation.
Context and precedent
This lawsuit follows a similar 2021 French case where Brigitte Macron successfully sued two women over the same rumors. Although an appeal overturned that decision, the Macrons have escalated legal efforts both in France and now in the U.S., reflecting growing concern over cross-border online defamation