French president’s personal life to be on view as he speaks to nation

PARIS – The French president’s complex personal life – and what it means to be the first lady in modern society – may get a full airing as Francois Hollande answers questions for the first time since a tabloid reported he was having an affair with an actress.

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Hollande’s partner, journalist Valerie Trierweiler, has been hospitalized since Friday, when the tabloid Closer published photos it said proved Hollande’s liaison with Julie Gayet.

Hollande is due to give his annual news conference Tuesday afternoon, and though he may want to discuss policy and the economy, he will certainly face questions about the alleged affair.

The latest revelations raise questions about the role of “first lady” in France. Trierweiler is the first person to hold the post who was not married to the president.