Dieudonné

Dieudonné M'bala M'bala, better known as Dieudonné, is a French comedian, actor, and political activist born to a Cameroonian father and a French mother. He first gained fame through his collaboration with Jewish comedian Élie Semoun, where they humorously tackled racial stereotypes. However, his career took a controversial turn as he began to express anti-Zionist sentiments and engage with far-right politics. Dieudonné ran for legislative office in 1997 and 2001 in Dreux, opposing the National Front party, which he accused of racism.

The comedian faced significant backlash after a 2003 television sketch in which he portrayed an Israeli settler in a derogatory manner, leading to accusations of antisemitism. Despite multiple legal challenges and convictions related to hate speech—totaling eight by various courts—he remained unapologetic and continued to criticize what he termed the "Jewish lobby." His notoriety escalated with the introduction of the quenelle gesture, which drew widespread condemnation, especially after footballer Nicolas Anelka used it during a match in 2013.

Dieudonné's performances have frequently landed him in legal trouble, resulting in the cancellation of many shows and bans from mainstream media. Despite this, he continues to perform in his Paris theater and remains active online. His controversial associations, including a friendship with former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, further highlight his polarizing figure in contemporary French society.