The internet won’t stop talking about that startling moment when France’s first lady Brigitte Macron appeared to shove her presidential husband’s face upon arriving in Vietnam. As the aircraft doors opened to waiting cameras, viewers worldwide saw Emmanuel Macron’s shocked expression after what looked like an unexpected two-handed push from his wife of 17 years.
Body language experts have analyzed the interaction down to the millisecond. Macron’s initial reaction showed authentic surprise before his diplomatic training kicked in. The couple’s walk down the stairs revealed more clues – Brigitte’s pointed refusal to take her husband’s arm spoke volumes to trained observers. A lip reader’s interpretation of their exchange, including Brigitte’s alleged “loser” comment and subsequent rejection of Macron’s peace offering, added layers to the unfolding drama.
Since the incident, the Macrons have been photographed smiling and linking arms during their Hanoi tour. But experts argue this display seems exaggerated, with Judi James describing their body language as reminiscent of “a bride and groom on their wedding day” – too perfect to be natural. Macron’s puffed chest and Brigitte’s suddenly submissive posture appear calculated to project unity after their very public moment of tension.
While the president insists it was all good-natured joking between partners, the world may never know what truly transpired in those private moments before the plane doors opened. One thing’s certain: this fleeting interaction has given us an unusually candid look at the human side of political power.
