Drag Queens Shine at Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony Amid Controversy

PARIS — The Paris Olympics opening ceremony featured an unprecedented celebration of inclusivity, with drag queens taking center stage to highlight the vibrant role of the French LGBTQ+ community. Their participation, however, sparked criticism for a tableau that some perceived as reminiscent of “The Last Supper.” Initially positioned alongside the runway, the drag performers later joined the models, showcasing their unique styles and expressions. Le Filip, the recent winner of “Drag Race France,” expressed pride in the ceremony's scale and representation, stating, “I thought it would be a five-minute drag event with queer representation.” They emphasized the significance of seeing friends and fellow queer individuals on a global platform, describing the experience as a crowning moment. However, the performance drew ire from some religious conservatives, who felt insulted by the portrayal. In response to the backlash, Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the ceremony, clarified that any resemblance to “The Last Supper” was unintentional. Le Filip addressed the criticism with a mix of humor and sorrow, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community in France, particularly regarding legal identity changes. They noted that the ceremony aimed to project an idealized vision of freedom and inclusivity, rather than the current realities faced by many. Ultimately, the event served as a bold statement of pride and representation, showcasing France's commitment to diversity on a world stage, despite the controversies it ignited.