French President Emmanuel Macron was allegedly struck in the face by his wife Brigitte after she discovered flirtatious text messages with a younger Iranian actress on his phone, according to a new book by journalist Florian Tardif. The incident reportedly occurred before the couple descended from their plane in Hanoi, Vietnam, during an official state visit approximately one year ago.
Caught on Camera in Vietnam
Footage from the arrival in Hanoi captured the tense moment as the airplane door opened. Brigitte Macron appeared to slap or smack her husband’s face before he realized cameras were recording the incident. The French President attempted to downplay the situation, but his wife’s hostility remained evident. She refused to hold his hand as they walked down the aircraft stairs together, creating an awkward spectacle for waiting dignitaries and media.
Alleged Affair With Franco-Iranian Star
Tardif’s book claims the confrontation stemmed from messages exchanged between Macron and actress Golshifteh Farahani. The journalist alleges the French President engaged in a months-long flirtation with the younger performer, sending text messages including phrases like ‘I find you very pretty.’ The French President’s office dismissed the entire episode as merely ‘couples teasing,’ though the visible tension between the Macrons suggested otherwise. Representatives for Brigitte Macron have categorically denied the allegations about discovering messages from an actress.
Official Denials and Questions
The French first lady’s spokesperson issued a statement rejecting the claims made in Tardif’s book. However, the denial has done little to quell public interest in the incident, particularly given the visual evidence of the confrontation captured by cameras in Vietnam. The footage shows clear hostility between the couple, contradicting official explanations of playful behavior. Questions remain about the nature of any relationship between Macron and Farahani, and whether the public witnessed a genuine marital dispute.
Pattern of Public Tensions
This incident adds to ongoing scrutiny of the Macron marriage, which has faced persistent public fascination due to their significant age difference. The couple met when Emmanuel was a teenager and Brigitte was his drama teacher. Their relationship has weathered decades of commentary, but this alleged confrontation represents one of the most visible signs of marital discord captured on camera during Macron’s presidency.
