Candace Owens Faces Defamation Lawsuit from French President Macron

American right-wing commentator Candace Owens is at the center of a significant international controversy following a defamation lawsuit filed against her by French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron. The couple alleges that Owens made defamatory claims about Brigitte Macron’s gender identity, asserting that she was born a biological male, a statement that has sparked outrage and widespread media attention.

The Allegations and Legal Action

The lawsuit, filed in a Delaware state court in July 2025, accuses Owens of profiting from spreading false and malicious claims about Brigitte Macron. According to court documents, the French President and his wife are pursuing a 22-count defamation suit, alleging that Owens’ statements were not only defamatory but also damaging to their reputation on a global scale. As reported by CNN, the case has drawn attention to the limits of free speech and the consequences of spreading unverified information in the digital age.

Owens, a prominent figure in conservative media circles, has frequently courted controversy with her outspoken views. This latest incident, however, appears to have crossed a line for the Macrons, who are determined to hold her accountable. French legal experts have noted that such lawsuits are rare for sitting heads of state, underscoring the seriousness with which the Macrons view the allegations.

Who Is Candace Owens?

Candace Owens has long been a polarizing figure in American media and politics. Known for her provocative commentary, she has gained a significant following among conservative audiences. Her career trajectory has included roles as a political activist, author, and host of a popular podcast. Her outspoken nature has often landed her in hot water, but it has also solidified her position as a key voice in right-wing media.

As highlighted by Hindustan Times, Owens is married to George Farmer, a British entrepreneur and former CEO of Parler, a conservative social media platform. The couple, who married in 2019, share three children and reside in Tennessee. Farmer himself is no stranger to the public eye, having built a significant fortune through his ventures in business and real estate.

Reactions to the Lawsuit

The lawsuit has elicited a wide range of reactions across the political and media spectrum. Supporters of Owens have defended her right to free speech, arguing that the legal action is an attempt to silence dissenting voices. Critics, however, have condemned her comments as baseless and harmful, emphasizing the ethical responsibility of public figures to avoid spreading misinformation.

In France, the case has sparked debates about the intersection of privacy and public life. Brigitte Macron, who has been a prominent figure in her husband’s presidency, has largely avoided the spotlight when it comes to personal matters. This incident has brought her private life into sharp focus, raising questions about the boundaries of public discourse.

Implications for Free Speech and Media Accountability

This high-profile case highlights the ongoing tension between free speech and the need for accountability in media. In an era where misinformation can spread rapidly online, the consequences of false claims are more severe than ever. Legal experts have pointed out that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it is not without limits, particularly when it comes to defamation and harm to an individual’s reputation.

The outcome of the lawsuit could have far-reaching implications, not only for Owens but also for the broader media landscape. It may set a precedent for how defamation cases involving high-profile individuals are handled in the future, particularly in cross-border contexts.

As this case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the power and responsibility that come with a public platform. The court’s decision will likely have a lasting impact on the boundaries of free speech and the accountability of those who wield influence in the digital age.