Brigitte Macron, the wife of French President Emmanuel Macron, has found herself at the center of controversy after remarks made during a comedy show disruption. This incident involved feminist protesters who disrupted the performance of comedian Ary Abittan, who has faced accusations of rape.
Incident at the Comedy Show
On a Saturday night, four members of the feminist group #NousToutes interrupted Ary Abittan’s show at the prestigious Folies Bergère in Paris. They wore masks depicting Abittan’s face and labeled him a “rapist,” while chanting slogans to raise awareness of their cause. This protest was in response to the comedian’s controversial return to the stage following a legal case that resulted in his exoneration in January.
Background on Ary Abittan
- Abittan was accused of rape by a young woman in late 2021.
- A three-year investigation concluded with a dismissal of charges confirmed by an appeal.
- His public performances continue to be met with opposition from feminist activists.
Brigitte Macron’s Response
Following the disruption, Brigitte Macron attended Abittan’s show the very next day. A video released by Public magazine captured her expressing support for the comedian. In a humorous exchange, she remarked, “If there are idiots, we will throw them out,” referring to the protesters.
Reactions from Feminist Groups
The protest and Macron’s remarks have sparked significant backlash. The #NousToutes group criticized her choice of words, labeling them as disrespectful to victims. A member, identified as Gwen, stated, “The words used reveal a troubling perspective, and it is shocking.” Their messaging emphasizes the need for support for victims and concerns over how such comments impact feminist movements.
Criticism of Brigitte Macron
Reactions to her comments have been swift. Judith Godrèche, an actress, expressed solidarity with the feminist protesters on Instagram. She stated, “I too am an idiot, and I support everyone else.” Furthermore, Marine Tondelier, a leader in the ecological movement, condemned Macron’s remarks on BFMTV, calling them “serious” and inappropriate for a first lady.
Conclusion
This incident highlights ongoing tensions between feminist movements and public figures in France. The responses to both the protest and Brigitte Macron’s comments reflect broader societal discussions about gender, power, and the role of comedy in addressing sensitive issues.
