French President Emmanuel Macron’s wife Brigitte allegedly slapped him after discovering flirtatious messages between the president and a younger actress on his phone, according to a new book by journalist Florian Tardif. The dramatic confrontation reportedly occurred before a public appearance in Hanoi, Vietnam, where cameras captured the tense moment between the couple.

The Vietnam Incident Caught on Camera

Approximately one year ago, as the Macrons arrived in Hanoi for an official state visit, video footage captured an extraordinary scene. As the airplane door opened, Brigitte Macron appeared to slap or smack her husband’s face before he realized they were being filmed. The French President visibly attempted to recover from the awkward situation, but Brigitte’s hostility remained apparent as she refused to hold his hand while descending the aircraft stairs.

Allegations of Messages with Iranian Actress

Tardif’s book claims the slap resulted from Brigitte discovering steamy messages between Macron and Franco-Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani. According to the journalist, the two had engaged in a months-long exchange, with messages including phrases like “I find you very pretty.” The French President’s office attempted to downplay the visible airport confrontation, characterizing the incident as mere “couples teasing” between husband and wife.

Official Denials and Questions

Representatives for Brigitte Macron have denied the claims outlined in Tardif’s book. A statement from the French First Lady’s office rejected the new allegations that she slapped her husband after finding messages with the actress on his phone. The official denials have done little to quell public speculation about the state of the Macrons’ marriage, particularly given the documented video evidence from Vietnam. The incident raises questions about the personal dynamics within France’s most prominent political couple and whether private tensions are affecting their public duties.