On January 10, 2014, a paparazzi photo of François Hollande on a scooter heading to see actress Julie Gayet sparked a scandal known as Gayetgate, as he was in a relationship with Valérie Trierweiler. In March 2023, Gayet reflected on the affair’s impact, expressing empathy for Trierweiler. After ten years together, Hollande and Gayet married on June 4, 2022, maintaining a public presence while embracing their blended family. The couple shares a strong bond, navigating personal and public challenges together.
In a moment that captured headlines, paparazzi Sébastien Valiela snapped a notable image of François Hollande on a scooter en route to see actress Julie Gayet on January 10, 2014. This shot sparked immense media attention and became known as Gayetgate, particularly because Hollande was then in a relationship with Valérie Trierweiler. This iconic photo, which graced the front page of Closer, is often regarded as a significant turning point in his presidency. Reflecting on this tumultuous period, Julie Gayet recently shared her feelings in an interview with Elle magazine on March 1, 2023. When confronted about her image as a ‘homewrecker’, the 50-year-old producer expressed empathy for Hollande’s former partner. ‘I understand the pain of a separation.’ She continued, ‘I honored that pain while trying to carve out my own space.’ Today, François Hollande and Julie Gayet have forged a blended family with a total of six children—two belonging to Julie and four from Hollande’s earlier relationship with Ségolène Royal.
Public Appearances as a Couple
On March 8, 2018, Julie Gayet voiced her thoughts about the role of First Lady in Paris Match. She criticized the position as ‘sexist’, arguing that ‘it demands you to cease your career’ without any ‘salary’ in return. While Hollande served as president, the couple intentionally chose not to publicize their relationship to ensure they could focus on their work without distractions. As Gayet noted, there was a distinct separation between their presidential duties and their personal life: ‘I never attended official events; I declined invitations to formal dinners.’ Since Hollande departed from the Élysée Palace, the couple has made numerous joint public appearances, including events like the Printemps de Bourges festival in April 2024 and at Roland Garros in June 2024, as well as on various social media platforms.
Wedding Celebration of François Hollande and Julie Gayet
After a decade together, the relationship between François Hollande and Julie Gayet has matured significantly. The couple tied the knot on June 4, 2022, in a private ceremony held in Tulle. This marked the first marriage for the former president, yet his children were not in attendance. Professionally, Hollande remains engaged with current events, recently appearing in the media to share his insights. In response to questions about a potential presidential run, Julie Gayet stated in Elle, ‘That would be his decision; I wouldn’t influence it, but I would always support him.’ She further emphasized, ‘Just as he would stand by me if I were to shoot a film in Los Angeles.’ Gayet also expressed their enduring connection, stating, ‘Throughout these years, we’ve managed to maintain our bond. Today, we can take on anything together.’ Such sentiments illustrate the strength of their union, steadfast even through challenging times.
Also of Interest:
⋙ ‘She wasn’t aware’: Valérie Trierweiller shares a poignant moment alongside Julie Gayet
⋙ François Hollande and Julie Gayet: Their latest shared photos evoke strong emotions among fans
⋙ François Hollande in love: The heartfelt reason behind his marriage proposal to Julie Gayet