A widely circulated video showing French President Emmanuel Macron being slapped by his wife, Brigitte Macron, has sparked public debate and media scrutiny. The incident, reportedly captured aboard the presidential aircraft en route to Vietnam for a Southeast Asian diplomatic tour, quickly went viral after surfacing online.
In the video, Macron appears to be speaking calmly with Brigitte near the aircraft’s exit before she unexpectedly reaches out and strikes him across the mouth. Although visibly stunned, President Macron quickly regains his composure, proceeding to wave to awaiting journalists. As they disembarked, Macron extended his hand to Brigitte, who chose instead to hold the stair railing, further fueling speculation about tension between them.
Initially, the Élysée Palace denied the authenticity of the footage. However, officials later confirmed its legitimacy, describing it as “a little fun” shared between the couple. A source close to them attempted to dispel the uproar by stating, “It was a moment of togetherness. No more is needed to fuel the conspiracy theorists.”
Despite the official stance, the incident has intensified existing debates over the couple’s long-discussed relationship. Brigitte Macron, 25 years older than Emmanuel, first met him while she was his high school drama teacher—an unconventional origin that has drawn frequent public and media attention.
Critics argue that the slap, even if playful, raises concerns about personal boundaries and power dynamics in their relationship. Others view the public reaction as disproportionate, urging respect for the couple’s private life. Still, the event has sparked renewed curiosity and controversy regarding France’s First Couple, particularly as Macron engages in sensitive international diplomacy.
Watch the video below;
SHOCKING: French President Emmanuel Macron SHOVED IN THE FACE by his wife Brigitte as they exit a plane in Vietnam! This looks like an EXTREMELY toxic relationship. Imagine your husband leading a nation, trying to stand up to powerhouses like Putin & Trump & his toxic wife… pic.twitter.com/7PWc1CkaG7
— Tehseen Poonawalla Official 🇮🇳 (@tehseenp) May 26, 2025