Natacha Rey, the individual behind a widely-discussed rumor about French First Lady Brigitte Macron, passed away on September 13, 2026, in Saintes, Charente-Maritime. Her death was announced publicly on September 18 by Xavier Poussard, who stated that she died of cancer. Rey had dedicated several years to her controversial investigation into Macron, which drew significant attention and sparked heated debates.
On the same day as Rey's death, her lawyer, François Danglehant, revealed on social media that she had definitively won the defamation case against Brigitte Macron and her brother. This case had been ongoing since 2021, when Rey first made contact with Catherine Audoy, wife of Jean-Louis Auzière, a close friend of Brigitte Macron's first husband's family. This interaction led to Rey's first encounter with the law, resulting in a police hearing and a complaint filed by Audoy.
Rey's journey into controversy began to gain momentum in December 2021, when she released a video with Amandine Roy, spreading claims about Brigitte Macron that quickly went viral. This led to a defamation lawsuit filed by Macron and her brother. In September 2024, Rey and Roy were initially found guilty and sentenced, with Rey receiving a €500 suspended fine. However, the Paris Court of Appeal later acquitted them on July 10, 2025.
The appeal court's decision did not validate Rey's claims about Macron but focused on the legal classification of her statements under defamation law. Macron and her brother subsequently announced plans to appeal to the Court of Cassation. Meanwhile, Rey's lawyer stated that his client had taken her case to the European Court of Human Rights. This marked a significant development in the prolonged legal battle.
On September 13, 2026, at 2:20 PM Paris time, Danglehant announced Rey's definitive victory in the defamation case. This announcement coincided with the day of her death, though the exact time of her passing remains undisclosed. It is unclear whether Rey was aware of the announcement before her death. Her lawyer's statement highlighted the conclusion of her protracted legal ordeal.
Rey's funeral was held on September 18, 2026, in Saintes, as confirmed by the local diocese. Her case drew widespread attention due to its connection to high-profile figures and the complexities of defamation law. The case also sparked discussions about the limits of free speech and the protection of individuals' reputations.
The aftermath of Rey's death and her final court victory will likely continue to resonate in discussions about freedom of expression and the intricacies of French defamation laws. Her case serves as a notable example of the tensions between public figures' right to reputation and the public's right to information.
Key points
- Natacha Rey, originator of a rumor about Brigitte Macron, died on September 13, 2026, after securing a definitive court victory in her defamation case.
- Rey's case had been ongoing since 2021, involving multiple legal proceedings and appeals.
- Her death and final court win have sparked discussions about freedom of expression and French defamation laws.
