Gad Elmaleh Embraces Moroccan Roots, Advocates Religious Diversity in Comedy

"In my halls there are as many kippas as veils. Catholics and Protestants too, even if they are less noticeable! I repeat several times in the show: ’Religion is not your identity.’ It’s important. I don’t want to be defined by my belief or by my belonging to a community. But I note that no one is surprised that a French atheist artist brings together a varied audience. I was born in Morocco, I assume it 100%, I’m Jewish, I assume it 100%. And my interest in the Catholic religion, I assume it 100%. Even if it doesn’t please everyone," said Gad Elmaleh in an interview with la Tribune during which he discussed "Himself," his 9th one-man show.

The Moroccan-Canadian comedian is a lover of France. However, he does not have French nationality. He plans to apply for it. "I’m thinking about it. I had started the process a few years ago, but it was too laborious, I gave up, he confided. I have a residence permit, I pay my taxes in France, I benefit from the resulting advantages such as Social Security. I love my status as an immigrant. And, like my parents, I am infinitely grateful to France, it is she who allowed me to work and be successful. The only thing I don’t have is the right to vote. Which doesn’t stop me, each time, from wondering who I would vote for."

This Moroccan immigrant also expresses his gratitude to France: "[...] This status does not define me as a citizen. But would I have had the same career if, at the beginning of my career in France, an extremist policy had been implemented? What is surprising is that many Moroccan immigrants - my father first - still think, after years, that they are invited here and that they must behave well towards our French host, be discreet and respectful. Which does not mean being submissive."