Natacha Rey, figure of conspiracy and spreading the transphobic rumor about Brigitte Macron, has died

She was a conspiracy figure. Natacha Rey, who presented herself as an “independent journalist”, has died. The announcement was made on Friday by Xavier Poussard, another “independent journalist” from far-right circles and considered one of the most influential conspiracists in France. According to Xavier Poussard, Natacha Rey died of cancer. 20 Minutes is able to confirm the death of the latter. The funeral was celebrated on Friday September 18 at the Saint-Palais church in Saintes (Charente), 20 Minutes learned from members of the diocese.

Died on September 13, Natacha Rey made herself known by spreading the rumor that Brigitte Macron was in fact a man. Fake news widely taken up by the French conspiracy sphere but also internationally.

In an interview broadcast on YouTube in December 2021, the one who called herself a “self-taught journalist” affirmed that Brigitte Macron would never have existed. Natacha Rey then explained that the first lady was in fact born Jean-Michel Trogneux and would have changed sex. A thesis described as “completely far-fetched” by Brigitte Macron, who had filed a complaint.

Convicted, then released

Tried in September 2024 with the medium Amandine Roy, Natacha Rey was found guilty and sentenced to a suspended fine of 500 euros for having spread false information concerning an alleged transidentity. The court of appeal, however, acquitted the two women in 2025. The first lady had announced her desire to appeal to the Court of Cassation.

The death of Natacha Rey was widely commented on on social networks. The news even crossed the Atlantic via the tribute paid by the American conspiracy influencer Candace Owens, who had largely contributed to relaying the rumors concerning Brigitte Macron.