Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Trogneux’s love story began in a high school classroom in northern France. Emmanuel was just 15 years old and a student at Le Providence, a Catholic school. Brigitte, then 39, was his drama teacher. Despite the significant age gap, they formed a deep connection. In a November 2023 interview with Paris Match, Brigitte confessed, “For me, such a young boy was crippling.” Initially, the relationship did not progress romantically. However, they kept in touch over the years, and their bond only grew stronger.
When Did They Start Dating?
The two did not begin dating immediately. Emmanuel’s parents, upon discovering his feelings for Brigitte, initially thought he was interested in her daughter. When they learned the truth, they sent him to boarding school in Paris, hoping he would move on. Despite the distance, Emmanuel and Brigitte stayed in contact. Brigitte was married at the time and focused on raising her three children. This period of separation lasted for about a decade, during which Brigitte prioritized her children. She later said, “I told myself that he would fall in love with someone his [own] age. It didn’t happen.”
What Challenges Did Their Relationship Face?
Their relationship faced several challenges, primarily the 25-year age difference. Brigitte, who was already married when Emmanuel was born in December 1977, admitted in an interview with France’s RTL radio station that their age gap has been difficult. “We are not a model couple,” she stated. “Being a couple is complicated, it’s an everyday struggle. When you have a big age difference, it can be even more complicated.” Brigitte also rejects the term “cougar,” finding it offensive and inaccurate. She explained, “I have always been attracted to men of my age. Except Emmanuel Macron, who was the exception.”
Who Are Brigitte Macron’s Children?
Before her relationship with Emmanuel, Brigitte was married to André-Louis Auzière, a banker. They had three children together: Sébastien, Laurence, and Tiphaine. Brigitte also has seven grandchildren. Each of her children pursued successful careers – one became a cardiologist, another a lawyer, and the third a statistical engineer. When Brigitte began her relationship with Emmanuel, she knew it would affect her children. She shared with Elle in December 2017, “I know that I have hurt my children, and that is the thing I reproach myself for the most. But I couldn’t not do it.”
When Did They Get Married?
Emmanuel and Brigitte tied the knot in 2007, a year after Brigitte divorced her first husband, who passed away in 2019. Their wedding marked the beginning of their official journey as a couple. During the reception, Emmanuel expressed his gratitude to Brigitte’s children for accepting their relationship. He said, “Thanks for accepting us, a not-quite-normal couple.”
How Does Brigitte Support Emmanuel Macron?
Throughout Emmanuel Macron’s presidency, Brigitte has been a steadfast support. He often refers to her as his “anchor,” emphasizing her role in keeping him grounded and focused. In a 2017 interview with CNN, Emmanuel stated, “For me, it’s very important for my personal balance to have somebody at home telling you the truth every day.” Brigitte’s candid feedback and deep convictions have been essential in helping Emmanuel navigate his political career and personal life.
What is Their Relationship with Other World Leaders?
Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron have built relationships with other global leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. During a visit to Rome in October 2021, Jill Biden and Brigitte enjoyed a dinner together, which Jill later described as “two friends together, just like sisters.” In December 2022, the Macrons were special guests at the first State dinner of the Biden administration, highlighting the close relationship between the two couples.
Do They Spend Time Apart?
Despite Emmanuel’s demanding schedule, he and Brigitte make a concerted effort to avoid spending nights apart. Brigitte told Elle, “It comforts me when Emmanuel is by my side. I wouldn’t want to speak for him, but I’m pretty sure he feels the same way.” Their commitment to each other is evident in their daily lives, balancing professional obligations with their personal relationship. Brigitte added that she used to be a “big worrier” before marrying Emmanuel, but their relationship has brought her peace and stability.
What is Their View on Their Relationship?
Brigitte and Emmanuel’s relationship is often viewed as unconventional, yet for them, it is simply a matter of the heart. Brigitte described their bond as fitting together perfectly, akin to the Platonic idea of meeting one’s better half. Despite their age difference, they have found a balance that works for them. Brigitte reflected on their relationship, saying, “When I read about us as a couple, I always feel like I’m reading someone else’s story. Yet it’s a simple story.”
Their love story, filled with unique challenges and deep commitment, continues to inspire and intrigue people around the world.
