Brigitte Macron sparked widespread controversy after she reportedly called feminist protesters "stupid bitches" backstage following a stand-up show by comedian Ary Abittan.The derogatory remark, made while reassuring Abittan who was targeted by demonstrations despite being cleared of rape charges, triggered a significant backlash from women's rights groups, celebrities, and left-leaning politicians.Amidst government defense of Macron's comments and comparisons to
Emmanuel Macron's prior defense of
Gérard Depardieu, actresses
Marion Cotillard and
Judith Godrèche adopted the slur in solidarity, fueling a viral hashtag.