Angélique Angarni-Filopon was crowned Miss France 2025 on December 14, but soon faced backlash following an interview where she hesitated to comment on freedom of expression amid the anniversary of the Charlie Hebdo attacks. Her reluctance sparked outrage on social media, prompting her to clarify her stance on Instagram, emphasizing her commitment to neutrality and condemning terrorist acts while upholding the importance of freedom of expression in France.
Angélique Angarni-Filopon Crowned Miss France 2025 Amid Controversy
On December 14, Angélique Angarni-Filopon, the reigning Miss Martinique 2024, was honored with the title of Miss France 2025, taking over from the charming Ève Gilles, Miss Nord–Pas-de-Calais 2023 and Miss France 2024. However, just weeks after her crowning, the young beauty found herself embroiled in controversy. Following her victory, Angélique became a target of cyberbullying and racist remarks, which intensified after her recent interview with Gilles Ganzmann and Valérie Expert on Sud Radio on January 8.
Controversial Interview Sparks Backlash
The date of the interview coincided with the somber anniversary of the January 2015 attacks on Charlie Hebdo, a tragedy that claimed nearly 12 lives and ignited significant discourse on freedom of expression, secularism, and the right to blasphemy in French society. The phrase “I am Charlie” emerged from this incident, symbolizing the defense of free speech and democratic ideals in France. During the interview, Gilles Ganzmann posed a challenging question to Angélique regarding her stance on this ongoing debate.
Initially reflecting on her personal experience of that tragic day, Angélique shared, “I remember that afterwards we had to go shopping and the atmosphere was very, very heavy.” However, when asked if she identified as “Charlie,” a visible discomfort enveloped the conversation, leading Angélique to respond, “I do not wish to comment,” and later reiterating, “I cannot comment.”
The journalists pressed further, questioning her support for freedom of expression and the right to blasphemy in France. Angélique’s hesitance prompted the question, “You do not want to answer?” to which she candidly replied, “no.” This response ignited a wave of criticism across social media platforms, with many users expressing outrage at her perceived failure to uphold French values as Miss France.
In light of the backlash, Angélique took to her Instagram on January 10, 2025, to address the controversy surrounding the interview. “Perhaps it was clumsy, but in my role as Miss France, I must maintain neutrality on certain subjects to avoid misunderstandings and provoke controversies,” she explained. Acknowledging the sensitivity of the topic, she continued, “I understand that my non-reaction on such a sensitive subject could have sparked so many comments. Obviously, it would be absurd to think that I could condone such barbaric acts that leave families grieving.”
Angélique concluded her statement by reaffirming her commitment to freedom of expression, saying, “Charlie Hebdo touches on deep issues, and of course, freedom of expression is paramount in France. I firmly condemn these terrorist acts, which are an attack against the fundamental values of our society, particularly freedom, tolerance, and respect.”