In the aftermath of the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, there have been a variety of responses to the controversial reactions. On one hand, there has been an immense backlash to the sexualized displays and apparent mockery of Christianity. On the other, particularly among mainstream media outlets, the ceremony has received praise.
NBC News Chicago praised the performance, heralding it as a “display of inclusivity” as an international sporting event. “Inclusivity took center stage at the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony as the lights beamed, flags of Olympic teams were carried over the Seine River, and drag queens captivated the world,” the local affiliate wrote. Moreover, NBC News claimed the ceremony was an “unabashed” performance while covering the incessant criticism of the apparent reinterpretation of “The Last Supper.”
The Associated Press offered a similar description of the ceremony, writing, “In an unprecedented display of inclusivity, drag queens took center stage at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, showcasing the vibrant and influential role of the French LGBTQ+ community — while also attracting criticism over a tableau reminiscent of ‘The Last Supper.’”
French President Emmanuel Macron also gave a positive review of the ceremony as his country hosted the Olympic Games. “Thanks to Thomas Jolly and his creative genius for this grandiose ceremony. Thank you to the artists for this unique and magical moment. Thank you to the police and emergency services, agents and volunteers,” he said.
The Christian Tribune previously reported on remarks from the artistic director, Thomas Jolly. “Above all, I want this ceremony to include everyone. We must all celebrate this diversity.” He said, “I was overwhelmed at first. I wondered how I could create a show where everyone can feel represented as part of this great union. This responsibility was ambitious, complex, but magnificent for an artist.”
He continued discussing his motivations for the ceremony, stating, “When we watch ‘Emily in Paris’ or ‘Amélie Poulain,’ we know it’s not quite the real Paris. We’re going to play with all those cliches, but we’re also going to challenge them. Paris is also a vibrant youth. Different cultures rubbing shoulders in the streets. I’ll be fired if I tell you anything. All I can tell you is that it will be very meaningful for the artists that will perform.”
However, the positive commentary on the opening ceremony has been drowned out by an onslaught of constant criticism. The American Tribune reported on comments from Jillian Michaels, who, despite identifying with the LGBT community, blasted the performance for its “hypocrisy” and a “lack of understanding.”
“Dear fellow gays… We demand tolerance and respect but then make a mockery of something sacred for over 2 billion Christians. This type of hypocrisy and lack of understanding is a bad look. We get outraged when the extreme right bashes us, but then we do this shit. What kind of reaction do you think they will have towards the LGBTQ+ community after this. This is NOT how we break down barriers it’s how you build them,” she wrote on X.
Watch Christian Actress Candace Cameron Bure sound off on the ceremony below:
Featured image credit: Ibex73, CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Olympic_rings_on_the_Eiffel_Tower_2024_(5).jpg
"*" indicates required fields