Brigitte Macron Faces Criticism Over Remarks Against Feminist Protesters
Published 9 December 2025
Highlights
- French first lady Brigitte Macron faced backlash for using a derogatory term against feminist protesters at a comedian's show.
- Activists disrupted Ary Abittan's performance, accusing him of rape, although the case was dismissed due to lack of evidence.
- The feminist group Nous Toutes organized the protest, criticizing venues for supporting men accused of sexual violence.
- Prominent French celebrities and politicians condemned Macron's comments, with many adopting the slur to show solidarity with feminists.
- Calls for an apology from Brigitte Macron have emerged, highlighting the ongoing debate on sexual violence and impunity in France.
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Rewritten Article
Brigitte Macron Faces Criticism Over Remarks Against Feminist Protesters
French first lady Brigitte Macron has come under fire following her use of a derogatory term to describe feminist activists who disrupted a comedian's show in Paris. The incident occurred at the Folies Bergère theatre, where Ary Abittan, a French actor previously accused of rape, was performing. The protestors interrupted his show, chanting "Abittan, rapist," despite the case against him being dismissed due to insufficient evidence.
Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage
In a video recorded backstage, Macron was seen conversing with Abittan, who expressed feeling "scared" after the protest. In response, she referred to the activists as "sales connes" (translated as "stupid bitches"), suggesting they would be removed if they returned. Her office later clarified that her comments were intended to reassure Abittan and critique the protest's radical methods, not to attack the feminist cause.
Feminist Group and Celebrity Support
The protest was organized by Nous Toutes, a prominent feminist group advocating against sexual violence in France. They criticized the normalization of sexist and sexual violence, particularly in venues that host men accused of such acts. The hashtag #salesconnes gained traction on social media, with celebrities like Judith Godrèche and Camélia Jordana adopting the term to express solidarity with the activists.
Political and Public Reactions
Politicians, particularly from the left, have condemned Macron's language, with former President François Hollande and Green leader Marine Tondelier among those calling for an apology. The incident has reignited discussions on the culture of impunity surrounding sexual violence in France, with many urging greater accountability and support for victims.
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Scenario Analysis
The controversy surrounding Brigitte Macron's comments could have significant implications for her public image and the broader discourse on sexual violence in France. If she issues an apology, it may help mitigate some of the backlash, though it could also further highlight the divide between her stance and feminist activists. The incident underscores the ongoing struggle against sexual violence and the need for systemic change, potentially prompting legislative or societal shifts in how such cases are handled. As public figures and politicians continue to weigh in, the debate may influence future policies and the cultural landscape regarding gender equality and justice in France.
French first lady Brigitte Macron has come under fire following her use of a derogatory term to describe feminist activists who disrupted a comedian's show in Paris. The incident occurred at the Folies Bergère theatre, where Ary Abittan, a French actor previously accused of rape, was performing. The protestors interrupted his show, chanting "Abittan, rapist," despite the case against him being dismissed due to insufficient evidence.
Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage
In a video recorded backstage, Macron was seen conversing with Abittan, who expressed feeling "scared" after the protest. In response, she referred to the activists as "sales connes" (translated as "stupid bitches"), suggesting they would be removed if they returned. Her office later clarified that her comments were intended to reassure Abittan and critique the protest's radical methods, not to attack the feminist cause.
Feminist Group and Celebrity Support
The protest was organized by Nous Toutes, a prominent feminist group advocating against sexual violence in France. They criticized the normalization of sexist and sexual violence, particularly in venues that host men accused of such acts. The hashtag #salesconnes gained traction on social media, with celebrities like Judith Godrèche and Camélia Jordana adopting the term to express solidarity with the activists.
Political and Public Reactions
Politicians, particularly from the left, have condemned Macron's language, with former President François Hollande and Green leader Marine Tondelier among those calling for an apology. The incident has reignited discussions on the culture of impunity surrounding sexual violence in France, with many urging greater accountability and support for victims.
What this might mean
The controversy surrounding Brigitte Macron's comments could have significant implications for her public image and the broader discourse on sexual violence in France. If she issues an apology, it may help mitigate some of the backlash, though it could also further highlight the divide between her stance and feminist activists. The incident underscores the ongoing struggle against sexual violence and the need for systemic change, potentially prompting legislative or societal shifts in how such cases are handled. As public figures and politicians continue to weigh in, the debate may influence future policies and the cultural landscape regarding gender equality and justice in France.
