Claims involving French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron have resurfaced following the release of a new book alleging a private disagreement during an official trip to Vietnam.
The allegations appear in a recently published book by journalist Florian Tardif, which suggests tensions arose after Brigitte Macron allegedly saw a message on the president’s phone from Iranian-French actress Golshifteh Farahani.
Supporters of the First Lady have firmly rejected the claims, insisting there was no confrontation linked to any personal messages. French presidential officials have previously described the incident referenced in the book as light-hearted behavior.
Allegations detailed in newly released book
Tardif’s book, titled An almost perfect couple, went on sale this week and revisits a brief viral video that circulated during the Macrons’ Vietnam visit. The author claims Brigitte Macron became upset during a flight after allegedly discovering a message from Farahani that included the words “I find you very attractive.”
According to the book, Tardif was shown private exchanges that he describes as evidence of a close but non-romantic relationship between the French president and the actress. No documentation supporting these claims has been publicly released.
Brigitte Macron’s circle dismisses narrative
A person close to Brigitte Macron, speaking on condition of anonymity, said she “categorically denies” any suggestion that the alleged incident was connected to messages or a dispute of a personal nature.
The source described the book’s account as inaccurate and misleading. The Élysée Palace has not issued a new response but has previously rejected similar reports.
When the video first emerged, presidential officials initially labeled online claims as false before later characterizing the interaction as playful behavior between the couple.
President Macron also dismissed the speculation at the time, saying the moment was misinterpreted and involved joking with his wife.
Ongoing media attention and reactions
Despite official explanations, the footage attracted significant international attention and continues to resurface in media discussions.
Tardif has defended his reporting in interviews, including a recent appearance on RTL radio, stating that some information came from individuals close to the president.
The controversy also drew comments abroad, with former US president Donald Trump making a light-hearted remark about the incident during a public appearance last month.
Farahani has previously denied any personal relationship with Macron and has not responded publicly to the renewed claims mentioned in the book.
Investigations or confirmations by French authorities regarding the book’s allegations have not been announced, and the claims remain unverified.
