Organizers of the Paris Olympics issued an apology on Sunday for any offense caused by their bold and unconventional opening ceremony. They emphasized that there was no intention to disrespect any religious group despite criticisms from some Catholic groups and French bishops who saw elements of the ceremony as mocking Christianity.
The controversy centered on a scene featuring dancers, drag queens, and a DJ, which some believed resembled the Last Supper. Paris 2024 spokeswoman Anne Descamps stressed that the ceremony was intended to promote inclusivity and was not meant to offend. “If people have taken any offense, we are truly sorry,” she said.
The ceremony, directed by Thomas Jolly and held under heavy rain along the River Seine, also included a segment with French actor Philippe Katerine, who appeared almost naked and painted blue as Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and pleasure. Jolly stated that the segment aimed to celebrate pagan traditions and affirmed values of liberty, equality, and fraternity. He denied any intention to mock or denigrate anyone.
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Another notable moment featured a woman holding a bloodied severed head, representing Marie-Antoinette, who was executed during the French Revolution. Jolly clarified that the scene was not meant to glorify the guillotine.
Despite the backlash, a survey by Harris indicated that most French people reacted positively to the opening ceremony. Internationally, it was reported as the most-watched Olympic opening since London 2012. On the second full day of the Games, around 700,000 spectators are expected to attend events across Paris.