Body Language Experts React To Brigitte Macron And The 'Push' Seen Round The World

A supposedly light-hearted moment between Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, has unexpectedly sparked a flurry of speculation — with commentators and analysts poring over what it might reveal about their relationship and the wider political mood.

What was meant to be a simple joke has since become a lightning rod for misinformation, conspiracy theories, and intense scrutiny of the couple's body language.

The Incident in Vietnam

As the Macrons prepared to disembark in Hanoi, a video emerged showing Brigitte Macron seemingly pushing her husband's face. The footage, captured by an Associated Press camera operator, shows Emmanuel Macron stepping back slightly, then smiling and waving. Macron later stated that the gesture was playful, and sources close to the couple described it as a moment of light-hearted teasing.

However, the reaction from Russia and far-right social media outlets was markedly different. Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for Russia's foreign ministry, mocked the incident, suggesting Brigitte had 'missed her mark' and implying it was a 'Kremlin hand' behind the scene. The clip was widely shared by Russian state media and associated accounts, aiming to portray the French president as embroiled in domestic conflict or compromised.

Expert Opinions on Body Language and Public Image

Body language specialists have since weighed in, emphasising the importance of context. Judi James, a recognised body language analyst, explained that Macron and Brigitte's behaviour in public often involves exaggerated rituals designed to project strength and unity. She noted that their attempts to overcorrect their demeanour could signal an awareness of scrutiny and a desire to control the narrative.

James observed that Macron's chest puffed out and his arm's positioning suggested a traditional display of confidence, while Brigitte's close proximity and touch indicated a desire to appear supportive and submissive, reinforcing the image of a well-matched partnership. Yet, she described their behaviour as 'overdone,' hinting at a possible attempt to mask underlying tension or to counteract the viral controversy.

The expert further suggested that their body language during recent appearances, such as at Hanoi University, resembled 'bride and groom' postures, with Brigitte leaning in and holding Macron's arm. These gestures are often used to project harmony publicly, but in this case, could be seen as an effort to bury the earlier footage and calm concerns.

The Political and Media Environment

Macron's team has made clear that the incident was merely a joke. An Élysée Palace spokesperson described it as 'a moment of closeness' and 'light-hearted banter,' designed to reassure the public and dismiss the conspiracy theories. Macron himself dismissed the claims, telling reporters in Hanoi that the internet's interpretations were exaggerated and unfounded.

This episode comes amid a broader landscape of misinformation campaigns targeting Macron. Recent weeks have seen false allegations involving drug use, with Russian and far-right outlets claiming he had shared cocaine on a train to Kyiv—an accusation quickly dismissed by officials and experts. The timing suggests a deliberate attempt to undermine Macron's credibility both domestically and abroad.

Implications for Diplomacy and Public Perception

Despite the controversy, Macron and Brigitte continued their diplomatic mission, signing agreements with Vietnam on Monday, including deals on Airbus planes, defence, and nuclear cooperation. These moves highlight France's strategic interest in strengthening ties with Southeast Asia, especially in the face of trade disruptions caused by US tariffs and geopolitical tensions.

What Do Experts Say About That Macron Push Moment?

Judi James argues that the couple's exaggerated responses after the viral moment and deliberate over-acting during their Vietnam visit indicate a fear of losing control over their image. The attempt to project a united front risks appearing 'over-the-top,' which can backfire and invite further speculation.

The incident's fallout reveals the fragile state of public perception. Experts warn that such viral moments can fuel misinterpretations and deepen political divides. The body language analyst suggested that Macron's and Brigitte's overcompensation in public might be an attempt to 'pretend all is well,' even as the media scrutinises every gesture.