Brigitte Macron Sparks Controversy Over Profanity Directed at Radical Female Activists

Female Activists Disrupt Show of Comedian Cleared of Rape Charges
Brigitte Macron Uses Profanity, Calling Them "Filthy Bitches"

Brigitte Macron, the wife of French President Emmanuel Macron, has sparked controversy after using profanities to refer to female activists who disrupted the performance of a male comedian previously accused of sexual assault.

According to a video released on social media on December 8 (local time), Brigitte Macron had a private conversation with the comedian on the evening of December 7, just before his show.

According to French media outlet RTL, the 51-year-old comedian was accused of rape by a woman in her 20s at the end of 2021, but prosecutors decided not to pursue charges.

Women's rights activists have consistently protested his return to the stage, frequently holding demonstrations near the venues. On the evening of December 6, four female activists wearing masks resembling the comedian's face caused a disturbance during the performance by shouting "rapist" from the audience.

Apparently referring to this situation, Brigitte Macron asked the comedian, "Are you okay? How do you feel?" The comedian replied, "Everything is frightening."

In response, Brigitte Macron said during the conversation, "If there are filthy bitches, you just throw them out. Especially those masked thugs."

Her remarks immediately drew backlash from left-wing groups.

Sarah Legrain, a member of the far-left party France Unbowed, expressed outrage on X (formerly Twitter), saying, "Brigitte Macron has insulted feminists."

A member of the women's group that caused the disturbance at the venue told AFP, "I am deeply shocked and angry. The words she used clearly reveal her mindset," adding, "This is an insult to victims and feminist organizations."

Judith Godr?che, an actress who participated in the 'MeToo' movement in France, expressed solidarity with the activists on Instagram, writing, "I am a filthy bitch too. And I support everyone else."

A close aide to Brigitte Macron explained to AFP, "Her comments were a criticism of the activists' extreme tactics in disrupting the comedian's performance and attempting to prevent artists from appearing on stage," adding, "Brigitte Macron does not support such radical methods."