Organizers’ Apology
Paris Olympics organizers have issued a formal apology if their bold and unconventional opening ceremony caused any offense. This apology follows criticism from French bishops and Catholic groups who felt the ceremony mocked Christianity.
Ceremony Details
The opening ceremony, held on July 26, was choreographed by Thomas Jolly and featured a variety of performances along the River Seine amid heavy rain. Some criticism centered on a scene with dancers, drag queens, and a DJ in poses reminiscent of the Last Supper, depicting Jesus’ final meal with his apostles.
Statement from Paris 2024
Anne Descamps, a spokeswoman for Paris 2024, stated that there was no intention to disrespect any religious group. “If anyone was offended, we are truly sorry,” Descamps said.
Jolly’s Response
Choreographer Thomas Jolly, 42, denied that the scene was inspired by the Last Supper. He explained that his nearly four-hour production aimed to promote tolerance and was inspired by ancient Greek mythology, including a portrayal of Dionysus, the god of wine and pleasure.
Controversial Depictions
The ceremony also featured a depiction of Marie-Antoinette, the French queen executed during the 1789 Revolution. Jolly clarified that the intention was not to glorify the guillotine but to reflect historical events.
Public and Official Reactions
The ceremony, held along the River Seine instead of a traditional stadium, received mixed reactions. A survey by Harris, commissioned by the organizers, revealed that 86 percent of French respondents viewed the event positively. Celine Dion’s performance from the Eiffel Tower was particularly memorable for many.
French President Emmanuel Macron praised the ceremony, noting it made the French people extremely proud. However, some conservative critics were displeased with the ceremony’s diverse and inclusive cast, labeling it as “woke.” The far-right National Rally party and Russian officials criticized the ceremony, with Russian spokesperson Maria Zakharova calling it a “giant gay parade.”
Viewership Statistics
American broadcaster NBC reported that the ceremony had the highest viewership since the London 2012 Olympics, and German broadcaster ARD noted it as the most-watched in two decades. Around 300,000 spectators attended, with some tickets costing hundreds or even thousands of euros.