Earthquake in Morocco: the world of Culture touched "at the heart" in France

The world of culture in France is touched to the “heart” after a violent earthquake in Morocco which left more than 2,000 dead, increasing calls for donations for Moroccans “in distress”. “Today I encourage people who are perplexed, who cry in front of their TV and don't know what to do, I tell them that every cent counts,” declared actor and comedian Gad Elmaleh on BFMTV, joining forces with the call for donations from Secours populaire. “Even if I was not born there, my heart bleeds and I can only show solidarity,” Moroccan-born comedian Élie Semoun declared on BFMTV.

“There are those who are shocked, we must help these people who are alive to get back to life. This is where this outpouring of solidarity makes sense and this is why I am speaking out to motivate and unite around this call for donations, ”said Gad Elmaleh. He also said he was talking with "a few artists to try to organize a gala or a show" in order to "be ready with the biggest pot possible."

LIVE - Earthquake in Morocco: more than 2,000 dead, searches continue in the rubble

“Terrible night, terrible awakening,” reacted on social networks Jamel Debbouze, Franco-Moroccan comedian, actor and producer who created the Marrakech laughter festival, by publishing a Moroccan flag. “All my support and my thoughts to the victims, their loved ones and all those affected by the earthquake. Let us all help and make our contribution at our level to help Morocco and let us pray that lives will be saved in the hours and days to come,” he continued.

Culture Minister Rima Abdul Malak expressed her “solidarity” with the “friends of Morocco” by promising that France “will also be by your side tomorrow to rebuild a millennial heritage so hard hit. With all your heart!" with the words “Morocco at heart.”