Macrons Sue Candace Owens Over False Claims About Brigitte Macron

Defamation Lawsuit Filed

• 🇫🇷 France's first couple, Emanuel and Breijit Macron, have filed a defamation lawsuit against US influencer Candace Owens.
• ⚖️ The lawsuit, filed in Delaware, seeks "substantial" damages from Owens for allegedly waging a campaign of global humiliation.
• 🎙️ The complaint states Owens' campaign aims to promote her podcast and expand her fan base.

Candace Owens' Background and Views

• 🇺🇸 Candace Owens is described as a conservative influencer with millions of followers on YouTube and other platforms.
• 📢 Others characterize her views as far-right and ultraright, aligning with more radical right viewpoints.
• 🗣️ She has been a critic of Black Lives Matter and expressed skepticism about the impact of white supremacy in American society.
• 📺 While sometimes critical of Donald Trump, she has shown empathy and has been associated with Fox News and previously with conspiracy-linked websites like Infowars.

The "Becoming Brigitte" Conspiracy Theory

• 🧠 Owens has promoted a conspiracy theory that Brigitte Macron is not who she claims to be, but rather her transgender brother, Jean Michel Tron.
• 📺 This theory, which Owens began promoting in a YouTube series called "Becoming Bridget" in January 2025, claims Brigitte is an assumed identity.
• ❌ The theory is described as patently, egregiously, ungrounded, false, and unsubstantiated.
• 📈 Despite being debunked, the theory has gained traction due to Owens' popularity and persuasive communication style.

Influence and Dangers of Conspiracy Theories

• 💬 Owens' influence is significant, with many followers believing her claims even when unsubstantiated.
• ⚠️ Conspiracy theories, like the one about Brigitte Macron, can cause people to fear harmless things and ignore real threats.
• 🌍 In a complicated world, people often crave simple answers to complex questions, making them more prone to latching onto conspiracy theories.
• 🧠 Individuals feeling anxious, marginalized, or disenfranchised may be more susceptible to believing and adhering to conspiracy theories.