On March 17, 2025, Paris witnessed a dramatic transformation of its iconic cabaret, Chez Michou, into the Michou Comedy Club. The new establishment, under the ownership of popular comedian Gad Elmaleh, marks a significant shift from its former life as a cabaret dedicated to transformism, in operation since 1957. The opening night saw a diverse lineup of both established comedians and newcomers eager to showcase their talent.
Elmaleh, who acquired Chez Michou in October 2024 following its financial struggles and judicial liquidation the previous summer, aims to revitalize the space as a hub for upcoming stand-up comics. With a capacity to welcome 80 guests, the Michou Comedy Club will initially open from Wednesday to Saturday, serving as a venue not only for performances but also as a training ground for budding comedians. "There will never be a great player without a training center. We want to be both a ground for matches and a place for life and exchanges," Elmaleh stated, underscoring his commitment to nurturing new talent.
During the inaugural evening, the stage hosted seasoned comedians like Paul de Saint Sernin alongside emerging acts including AZ, Nadège Mongerard, Nick Mukoko, and Sophie Loustalot. Elmaleh's vision is clear; he wishes to offer a platform where new careers can blossom. "The satisfaction of seeing careers take flight is enormous!" exclaimed Elmaleh. His approach is not just about elevating his own career, as he admits, "I prefer creating comedy clubs to having a street named after me."
The spirit of the original cabaret lives on despite the major changes. Elmaleh has promised to keep the essence intact, retaining the familiar decor that reflects the venue's storied history while making necessary updates to the lighting and sound systems. "We left everything intact—the photos, the gilded frames on the walls. It's an emotional experience for all of us," he shared.
The legacy of Chez Michou is further enriched by the fond memories of its founder, Michou, who passed away in early 2020. His niece, Catherine Catty-Jacquart, expressed her gratitude toward Elmaleh, stating, "Gad will keep the spirit of 80 rue des Martyrs alive. It has fallen into good hands, just as Michou would have wanted." Chez Michou was known for its vibrant dinner shows featuring extravagant performances, where entertainers mimicked renowned personalities like Sylvie Vartan, Johnny Hallyday, and Dalida. As part of its evolution, the Michou Comedy Club aims to embrace diverse comedic styles, detached from the cabaret's historical roots.
Elmaleh's commitment extends beyond just one venue. He has already opened another comedy venue, Le Vig's, in Marseille, and is organizing an international comedy festival, Jubil, slated for October 2025 in Nice. This expansion reflects his belief in the importance of fostering a vibrant comedy scene across France, especially for stand-up artists in the early stages of their careers.
As the Michou Comedy Club unfolds its comedic offerings, it stands as both a tribute to a cherished Parisian institution and a fresh opportunity for comedians to showcase their talent. With Elmaleh at the helm, the venue promises to be a breeding ground for humor and creativity, ensuring that the legacy of laughter continues in the heart of Montmartre.
