Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Trogneux’s love story began in the most unexpected place – a high school classroom. Emmanuel was a 15-year-old student at Le Providence, a Catholic school in northern France. Brigitte was his 39-year-old drama teacher. Despite the significant age difference, a connection was formed that would later blossom into a lifelong partnership. In a November 2023 interview with Paris Match, Brigitte recalled her initial reluctance to entertain a relationship with her young student, saying, “For me, such a young boy was crippling.”
When Did They Start Dating?
Keeping in Touch Over the Years
Emmanuel and Brigitte did not start dating immediately. Instead, they kept in touch while Emmanuel went off to college. During this time, Brigitte was married and focused on raising her three children. Despite the distance and circumstances, their bond remained strong. Emmanuel’s parents, initially believing he had feelings for Brigitte’s daughter, sent him to boarding school when they discovered the truth. Brigitte told Paris Match, “Emmanuel had to leave for Paris. I told myself that he would fall in love with someone his own age. It didn’t happen.”
What Challenges Did Their Relationship Face?
Navigating an Unconventional Relationship
Their relationship faced many challenges, not least of which was the significant age difference. Brigitte, who is 25 years older than Emmanuel, admitted in an interview with France’s RTL radio station that the age gap has been difficult. “We are not a model couple,” she said. “Being a couple is complicated, it’s an everyday struggle. When you have a big age difference, it can be even more complicated.” However, she firmly rejects the term “cougar,” stating that it does not apply to her and is offensive. “I have always been attracted to men of my age. Except Emmanuel Macron, who was the exception.”
Who Are Brigitte Macron’s Children?
Balancing Motherhood and a New Relationship
Before meeting Emmanuel, Brigitte was married to André-Louis Auzière, a banker, with whom she had three children: Sébastien, Laurence, and Tiphaine. She also has seven grandchildren. All of Brigitte’s children went on to successful careers, becoming a cardiologist, lawyer, and statistical engineer. When Brigitte started her relationship with Emmanuel, she was acutely aware of the potential impact on her children. In a December 2017 interview with Elle, she confessed, “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?
Tying the Knot in 2007
Emmanuel and Brigitte got married in 2007, a year after Brigitte divorced her first husband, who later passed away in 2019. Their wedding marked the official start of their life together as a couple. Before the reception, Emmanuel thanked Brigitte’s children for accepting their unconventional relationship. “Thanks for accepting us, a not-quite-normal couple,” he said.
How Does Brigitte Support Emmanuel Macron?
Emmanuel’s Anchor and Truth-Teller
Throughout Emmanuel Macron’s presidency, Brigitte has been his 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. That is my anchor.” Brigitte’s deep convictions and honest feedback have been crucial in helping Emmanuel navigate the complexities of his role.
What Are Their Relationships with World Leaders?
Friendship with the Bidens
As prominent figures on the world stage, Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron have developed relationships with other global leaders. They have met with U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on several occasions. During a visit to Rome in October 2021, Jill Biden and Brigitte Macron 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.
Do They Spend Time Apart?
Avoiding Nights Apart
Despite Emmanuel’s demanding schedule as the President of France, he and Brigitte make a concerted effort to avoid spending nights apart. In an interview with Elle, Brigitte shared, “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 everyday interactions, balancing their professional obligations with their personal relationship.
How Do They View Their Relationship?
A Simple Yet Extraordinary Love Story
Brigitte and Emmanuel’s relationship is often viewed as unconventional, yet for them, it is simply a matter of the heart. Brigitte once described their bond as fitting together perfectly, much like 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.
