French President Francois Hollande has threatened legal action over a magazine report that claimed he is having a secret affair with an actress.
The magazine Closer published images Friday showing a bodyguard and a helmeted man it says is Hollande visiting the apartment of Julie Gayet, a moderately known French actress who appeared in a clip for his 2012 presidential campaign.
Gayet's lawyer and agent did not immediately return phone and email messages on Friday about the Closer report.
Rumors have long circulated that Hollande might have a lover.
Reactions of common people vary.
"I heard about her this morning on the radio but, I really don't know her. In any event, I am not interested. He can do what he wants, he is not married."
"Gets my attention? No. Shocks me? No. It's his private life. At the same time I think it distracts us a little bit from focusing on the problems French people have."
The magazine, a tabloid known for suggestive photos and gossip, says the alleged affair raises questions about the president's security, if he is sneaking out with a single bodyguard and traveling exposed on the back of a motorcycle.
The magazine says the pair has been meeting secretly since June.
