French President Emmanuel Macron is facing renewed controversy after explosive claims in a newly released book alleged that a heated argument with First Lady Brigitte Macron erupted aboard a presidential aircraft over messages sent to Iranian-born actress Golshifteh Farahani.
According to the book written by French journalist Floriane Tardif, the dispute reportedly began after Brigitte Macron discovered romantic and allegedly inappropriate messages exchanged between President Macron and Golshifteh Farahani on his mobile phone. The revelations have reignited debate over an incident from May 2025, when cameras captured what appeared to be Brigitte Macron striking the French president moments after the aircraft door opened during an official visit to Vietnam.
The book claims that President Macron and the Iranian-French actress remained in contact for several months and exchanged personal messages. One alleged message quoted in the book reportedly described the actress as “very beautiful,” further intensifying speculation about the nature of their relationship.
The author also cited a close friend of Brigitte Macron, who allegedly said the French first lady was hurt not only by the reported messages but by a growing feeling that she was “slowly disappearing” from her husband’s life. The emotional details included in the publication have fueled widespread discussion across French and international media.
The incident aboard the presidential plane first drew global attention when footage showed a hand striking Macron’s face just as cameras focused on the aircraft door opening in Vietnam. Macron quickly smiled and waved at reporters, attempting to downplay the moment, but the clip went viral online and sparked intense speculation at the time.
Neither the French presidency nor Golshifteh Farahani has officially responded to the latest allegations mentioned in the book. Political analysts say the claims could create fresh media pressure on the Élysée Palace, especially as scrutiny around the French president’s personal life continues to grow.

