Paris Olympics Organizers Apologize for Controversial Opening Ceremony Tableau

Paris Olympics organizers have issued an apology following backlash over a tableau during the opening ceremony that some critics likened to Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” The scene, which featured DJ Barbara Butch and a cast of drag artists and dancers, drew ire from the Catholic Church and various Christian groups, who accused the event of mocking Christianity. The French Catholic Church described the performance as containing “scenes of derision and mockery.” In response to the criticism, Paris 2024 spokesperson Anne Descamps emphasized that there was no intention to offend any religious group. “We tried to celebrate community and tolerance,” she stated at a news conference, expressing regret for any offense taken. Despite the controversy, the opening ceremony received praise from many attendees, with some suggesting that the tableau was more reminiscent of other artistic works, such as “The Feast of the Gods.” Thomas Jolly, the director of the opening ceremony, clarified that “The Last Supper” was not the inspiration for the scene. He explained that the tableau was meant to celebrate Dionysus, the Greek God of celebration, and aimed to create a festive atmosphere linked to ancient mythology. Jolly firmly rejected any notion that the performance was intended to mock religious beliefs, asserting that the goal was to foster a spirit of celebration and inclusivity.