A short video recording of French President Emmanuel Macron getting a slight push to the face by his wife, Brigitte Macron, has become viral, drawing a mixed reaction on the internet.
The footage, which was recorded in public, shows Brigitte touching Macron’s face with what can only be termed a fast, firm touch. Some observers online called it a squabble, others a game of something between them.
Macron’s office responded to the affair by playing it down as not a fight, but a “light-hearted exchange.” One of their representatives qualified that the couple normally has private jokes and the clip was taken out of context.
While the official response was swift, the social media clip picked up rapidly, with some social media users humorously speculating about the quality of the moment. Others condemned the reaction online, claiming too much is being made of a mundane encounter.
The exchange was made when the president visited the southern French town of Toulon, where he and Brigitte posed with residents and took photos together. The exchange was quick and happened while cameras were rolling, recording what seemed to be an awkward moment.
Witnesses describe the presidency’s response as shutting down any unnecessary drama. Macron’s aides summoned the public to monitor developments that revolved around the purpose of the visit, which included community projects and development at the regional level.
Macron and Brigitte, who were married in 2007, are said to project an image of closeness in public and are frequently seen exchanging small gestures of affection. Their acquaintances say such encounters are frequent and should not be overinterpreted.
