Brigitte Macron Supports Ary Abittan Amid Feminist Protests Over Past Rape Allegations

On December 8, 2025, feminist activists from the NousToutes collective disrupted a performance by comedian Ary Abittan at the Folies Bergère in Paris to protest his return to the stage following serious rape allegations. The activists wore masks bearing Abittan's face and the label "violateur" (rapist), chanting slogans against him before being removed. Abittan faced accusations in late 2021 but was cleared of all charges in January 2024 after a thorough three-year investigation.

Despite the controversy, Abittan's second show in Paris attracted notable supporters, including director Claude Lelouch and former minister Manuel Valls, reflecting a division in public opinion. His scheduled performance in Lyon had previously been postponed due to backlash.

In a notable development, First Lady Brigitte Macron publicly condemned the protesters, referring to them as "sales connes" (dirty cunts) and expressing her support for Abittan. She was seen attending his performance and supporting him backstage, emphasizing her concerns over the protesters' disruptive tactics. Macron's entourage clarified that her remarks targeted the protest methods rather than the feminist cause itself.

This statement sparked significant outrage among feminist activists and public figures like Judith Godrèche and Sarah Legrain, who criticized the First Lady's comments as disrespectful to victims of sexual violence. The NousToutes collective continues to advocate against gender-based violence and opposes Abittan's reintegration into the media and entertainment sectors.

Ary Abittan himself has shown respect for the feminist cause but warned against undermining the justice system that exonerated him. As this controversy unfolds, tensions remain high between proponents of Abittan's return and feminist groups demanding accountability and respect for survivors of violence.