July 28th 2024.
The organisers of the Paris Olympics have issued an apology to anyone who may have been offended by a segment of the opening ceremony that paid tribute to Leonardo da Vinci's famous painting, The Last Supper. While they acknowledged the backlash, they also defended the concept behind the tableau.
For those unfamiliar with the painting, it depicts the moment when Jesus Christ revealed that one of his apostles would betray him. During the ceremony, DJ and LGBTQ+ icon Barbara Butch was featured, accompanied by drag artists and dancers. This drew criticism from religious conservatives around the world, including the French Catholic Church and the Russian Foreign Ministry.
Even the Anglican Communion in Egypt expressed their regret over the segment, fearing that it could tarnish the IOC's message of inclusivity and humanitarianism. However, the ceremony's artistic director, Thomas Jolly, clarified that the scene was meant to celebrate diversity and the culinary culture of France, rather than mock any religion.
During the International Olympic Committee's news conference, Paris 2024 spokesperson Anne Descamps addressed the controversy, stating that there was never any intention to disrespect any religious group. She reiterated that the intention was to promote community tolerance, as evident in the results of the polls they shared.
Jolly also explained his intentions, stating that he did not aim to be subversive or divisive, but rather to spread a message of love and inclusion. He wanted to celebrate diversity and bring people together through the power of the Olympic Games.
To catch all the action of the Olympic Games Paris 2024, tune in to Channel 9 and 9Now for live and free coverage. For an ad-free experience in 4K, you can also watch every event on Stan Sport. Let's come together and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and unity.
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