Julien Lacroix has announced that he is ending his career as a comedian, stating that it is no longer possible for him to practice his profession. This announcement comes on March 25, 2026, following a tumultuous few years marked by serious allegations and public scrutiny.
Lacroix’s decision to retire also includes stepping down as spokesperson for the Le Grand Chemin centers, where he had been involved in advocacy work. His career faced significant challenges after nine women accused him of sexual misconduct during the #MeToo movement in 2020, leading to widespread backlash and a public cancellation.
In an attempt to return to the comedy scene, Lacroix performed a new show in 2024, which attracted over 40,000 attendees across 150 venues. However, his comeback was overshadowed by the initial controversy, and he faced difficulties in regaining his previous standing in the industry.
Juste pour rire, a prominent comedy festival, initially announced a partnership with Lacroix but withdrew their support the following day, highlighting the ongoing challenges he faces in the entertainment community. Despite the accusations, it is notable that Lacroix has never been criminally or civilly charged.
In his statements, Lacroix has acknowledged having had degrading and disrespectful behaviors in the past, expressing that the portrayal of him has become too heavy to bear. He stated, “Trop lourd à porter,” reflecting on the emotional toll of the public’s perception.
He has also publicly and privately apologized for his past actions, emphasizing a desire to address the years of injustice and violence, stating, “On cherche plutôt à répondre à des années d’injustice et de violence, avec autant de violence.” This indicates his awareness of the impact of his actions on others.
The Council of the Press of Quebec has issued reprimands regarding the reporting on Lacroix, suggesting that the media’s portrayal may have contributed to the challenges he has faced. As he steps away from the spotlight, reactions from the public and industry peers remain mixed, with some expressing support while others continue to criticize his past behavior.
As Lacroix moves forward, he has emphasized the importance of family, stating, “Ma famille passe avant tout,” indicating a shift in his priorities as he leaves his career behind.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any future endeavors or plans for Lacroix outside of comedy.
