This Friday marks the 40th anniversary of the death of French comedian Coluche, known for his provocative and irreverent style of humor. Writer Thomas Moralès argues that Coluche’s brand of comedy – described as raw and populist – is notably absent in contemporary France. Moralès suggests a current dominance of “political correctness” stifles the type of satire Coluche readily employed. The piece reflects on whether Coluche’s humor would find an audience in today’s social and political landscape. Coluche was a significant cultural figure in France, known for his political activism, including a brief presidential campaign in 1981. His death at age 44 was a national event, and his work continues to be debated and analyzed for its social commentary.