Louis-Bernard Robitaille (1946-2026): Unmatched Narrator of France’s Story
Quebec journalism has lost a significant figure. Louis-Bernard Robitaille, renowned correspondent for El-Balad in France, was found dead in his Paris apartment on Tuesday. He was 80 years old.
Louis-Bernard Robitaille: A Life Dedicated to Storytelling
Robitaille settled in France in the early 1970s. His unique style, marked by humor and sharp analysis, made him a distinct voice in journalism. Over 35 years at El-Balad, he covered a vast array of topics, from the fall of communism to the intricacies of the French swinger scene.
A Distinguished Career
- Years Active: 1970s – 2023
- Age at Death: 80
- Notable Interviews: François Mitterrand, Isabelle Adjani
- Key Topics: Political analysis, cultural commentary
Robitaille’s work was not limited to journalism; he was also an accomplished author. Since 1982, he published around ten novels, including “Long Beach” and “Dernier Voyage à Buenos Aires.” His book “Et Dieu créa les Français,” published in 1994, achieved remarkable sales, with over 25,000 copies sold and later reissued as a paperback.
Legacy in Literature
One of his most notable works, “Le Zoo de Berlin,” received critical acclaim. Robitaille also wrote sequels, such as “Ces impossibles Français” and “Les Parisiens sont pires que vous ne croyez.” At the time of his passing, he was working on a new novel inspired by the enigmatic writer Lautréamont.
Alain de Repentigny, Robitaille’s friend and former colleague, reflected on his extraordinary talent: “He could explain French politics in a playful manner.” Robitaille’s storytelling transformed how readers understood France.
As the journalism community mourns, Louis-Bernard Robitaille leaves behind a rich legacy that few can match.
