July 27th 2024.
The 2024 Olympics in Paris kicked off with a bang last night as the Opening Ceremony wowed viewers with its grandeur and spectacle. However, not everyone was impressed, as the event drew criticism for a controversial representation of The Last Supper. Artistic Director Thomas Jolly spared no expense in welcoming the Olympics back to the city, but it was his decision to include drag artists in the portrayal of Leonardo DaVinci's iconic painting that caused an uproar.
As the ceremony unfolded, viewers were treated to stunning performances by Celine Dion, Lady Gaga, and heavy-metal band Gojira. The Olympic torch was also carried by sporting legends such as Zinedine Zidane, Serena Williams, and Rafael Nadal. However, it was the diverse lineup of drag queens and other performers gathered around the table for the Last Supper that drew the most attention.
Many online commentators expressed outrage at the display, comparing it to the biblical story of Sodom and Gomorrah. Even Tesla CEO Elon Musk chimed in, calling it "extremely disrespectful to Christians." Professional boxer Ryan Garcia also shared his thoughts, stating that the Olympics should be boycotted for disrespecting religion in front of millions of viewers.
But the controversy didn't stop there. American commentator Todd Starnes took to social media to denounce the ceremony as a display of "Olympic perverts." He described the scene, which also included a bearded man in a dress, a decapitated head singing a song, and a Smurf wearing a thong, as something that would even make the people of Sodom and Gomorrah blush.
The decapitated head, as it turns out, was a reference to Marie Antoinette, the last queen of France before the revolution. This segment was part of the performance by heavy-metal band Gojira, who sang the French revolutionary song Ça Ira. The location of this scene, on the banks of the river Seine opposite the Conciergerie, where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned, added to the controversy.
The mastermind behind the Opening Ceremony, Thomas Jolly, has been dubbed the "Peter Pan of Theatre" for his youthful appearance. The 42-year-old French actor, comedian, and director grew up in a small village in Normandy and founded his theatre company in 2006. In 2022, he created a 24-hour play based on Shakespeare's Henry VI trilogy and Richard III, titled H6R3.
In an interview with British Vogue, Jolly explained his vision for the Opening Ceremony, stating that he wanted it to represent all people in Paris. He believes that the chaotic nature of the city allows for everyone to find their place and that the ceremony will only be a success if everyone feels represented.
Love it or hate it, there's no denying that the Opening Ceremony got people talking. Whether it was the controversial portrayal of The Last Supper, the impressive performances, or the references to French history, everyone had an opinion. And as the saying goes, all publicity is good publicity.
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