Brigitte Macron finds herself once again in the spotlight after the release of a behind-the-scenes video in late 2025 and her apologies on 20 heures de TF1. The outburst described as “dirty whores” has sparked a fierce controversy between #MeToo activists and supporters of the presidential couple, and the public intervention of Bernard Montiel has immediately reignited the debate.
In brief: the video filmed at the Folies Bergère in December 2025, the publication and subsequent withdrawal by Public magazine, the public apologies of the First Lady, and Bernard Montiel’s statements on RTL on April 25, 2026, have amplified the media coverage and divisions within society.
Brigitte Macron and the “dirty whores” video: recap of the events
The events date back to December 2025: a behind-the-scenes video of a show by Ary Abittan shows remarks by Brigitte Macron deemed insulting by several collectives. The broadcast by Public, which was shared and then removed, provoked reactions from collectives like #NousToutes and unions. In response to the controversy, the First Lady apologized on 20 heures, acknowledging that she had made a regrettable slip.
Bernard Montiel defends Brigitte Macron and attacks feminists
Invited on RTL on April 25, 2026, Bernard Montiel stated that he advised the First Lady not to attend the show and described the scene as private. He criticized the reaction of some feminist movements, claiming he had not seen any public defense of Mrs. Macron, and dismissed rumors of favoritism for his media comeback. His intervention reignited the political debate about the implications of comments made in private.
Public reactions and stakes for public opinion
The controversy raised questions about the boundary between the private sphere and public responsibilities. Statements from Solidaires and other collectives condemned the remarks as “very serious”, while supporters suggested the necessity of contextualizing the incident. The media coverage also reignited rumors about influence relations surrounding the presidential couple, rumors that Montiel firmly rejected on air.
Consequences and media follow-up of the controversy
On the media front, the affair triggered articles, television debates, and cascades of international coverage, particularly after a headline from the New York Post relaying biographical details. The affair also highlighted tensions between freedom of expression and respect for feminist struggles, creating a divide in public opinion and among commentators. The intervention of personalities like Montiel fuels the discussion on the media coverage of private relationships.
For more information on Brigitte Macron, the public role of the couple, and their connections with their inner circle, discover detailed articles and columns on Brigitte and Emmanuel Macron and on public statements in the press regarding recent political reactions. Visit sebastien-auziere.fr for a complete file and archives on the Macron family and current issues.
