Leave My Other Half Out Of This

Singer-songwriter and French first lady Carla Bruni has reportedly pulled out of the San Remo Song Festival because one of the entries in the competition mocked her husband, President Nicolas Sarkozy.

Bruni’s decision to withdraw from the Feb. 16-21 festival, was revealed by the TV presenter Massimo Giletti on the state channel Rai Uno, which broadcasts the event.

Apparently “Meno Male,” which is to be sung by 2007 festival winner Simone Cristicchi, suggests the glamorous Mrs. Sarkozy is proving useful at distracting attention from her husband.

“Among the explanations is the possibility that her appearance was vetoed by the Elysée Palace in annoyance at the song that mocks President Sarkozy,” Giletti told the UK’s Daily Telegraph.

He also backed up his claims by saying he had e-mail proof from the French first lady’s staff.

The model-turned-singer was scheduled to perform with Italian songwriter Gino Paoli Feb. 18.

The popular music festival, which has been held in the town since 1951, is said to have inspired the Eurovision Song Contest.

Scottish singer and “Britain’s Got Talent” TV show winner Susan Boyle will perform also at San Remo this year, the festival’s 60th anniversary.