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Eddy Mitchell, Universal Condemn Antisemitic Parody of ‘Couleur Menthe à l’Eau’ as Minister Alerts Prosecutor

Authorities are treating the case as evidence of resurgent antisemitism in far-right circles.

Overview

  • Mediapart recently published video from a 2023 Égalité & Réconciliation festival showing an individual altering Eddy Mitchell’s 1980 hit with new lyrics.
  • Universal Music France said the substituted words were antisemitic and negationist, called them of “extreme gravity,” and demanded the video’s immediate removal.
  • The altered lyrics referenced Auschwitz-Birkenau, with reporting describing a denial or trivialization of Nazi crimes.
  • Minister delegate Aurore Bergé filed a report with the public prosecutor, stating the antisemitic character of the performance was beyond doubt.
  • CRIF and government figures say the affair reflects a wider resurgence and banalisation of antisemitism in France, with any formal legal proceedings yet to be detailed.