A new book dedicated to the personal lives of Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron has brought back into circulation the viral episode where the French First Lady was seen lightly hitting the president, footage that at the time caused numerous reactions in the media and social networks.
The author of the book "A Perfect Couple", journalist Florian Tardif of Paris Match magazine, claims that jealousy was behind the argument between the couple. According to him, Brigitte Macron was irritated after discovering messages with Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani on the president's phone.
In interviews promoting the book, Tardif says Macron had been exchanging messages with the actress for months, and that in some of them he complimented her on her looks. The journalist describes the relationship as "platonic," but says the tone of the messages was personal enough to create tension between the couple.
According to the author, the clash between the spouses escalated until it was later made public through a video that circulated widely online. He also claims that the information has been confirmed by several sources close to the presidential circle.
At the time the footage was released, Macron's staff reacted by downplaying the situation and considering it a private episode between the couple before an official engagement.
"A completely normal moment between spouses," was the stance of the French presidency, which attempted to quell speculation about problems in their relationship.
Emmanuel Macron also later commented on the video, acknowledging that the footage was real, but criticizing the interpretations that were made about it.
"I don't understand how such a moment became world news. So many absurdities have been said," the French president declared.
