On July 26, 2024, the Paris Summer Olympic Games kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony, but not without sparking significant controversy. French President Emmanuel Macron inaugurated the event under pouring rain, showcasing a grand display that featured athletes from 203 nations parading down the iconic Seine River. Amidst the celebration, one particular scene ignited fury on social media, primarily from Christian groups who perceived the performance as a mockery of their beliefs.
The contentious moment unfolded during a fashion show segment, where performers, including dancers, drag queens, and a DJ, were captured on camera in a manner reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci's renowned painting, "The Last Supper." This depiction, which illustrates the final meal shared by Jesus Christ and his disciples, was deemed offensive by many viewers, intensifying the ongoing discourse surrounding the event.
The opening ceremony was under the artistic direction of Thomas Jolly, a renowned French theater director. He structured the event into 12 tableaux, each symbolizing a unique facet of French culture. The specific scene in question fell under Tableaux 8, titled "Festivity," which Jolly explained intended to invoke the ancient pagan traditions of Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic Games.
What You Will Learn
- The opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics featured a segment that sparked outrage from Christian communities.
- The controversial scene was part of a fashion show that drew parallels to Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper."
- The artistic director, Thomas Jolly, aimed to reference ancient Greek traditions rather than mock religious imagery.
- Apologies were issued by the Paris Games communications director following backlash from various religious groups.
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