Paris 2024 Organizers Apologize for Last Supper Parody

The Paris 2024 Olympics organizing committee has issued an apology after a controversial parody of Leonardo da Vinci’s "The Last Supper" during the opening ceremony sparked outrage among Christian groups and conservative politicians.

Controversial Performance

The performance, set against the River Seine, featured drag queens, a transgender model, and a singer dressed as Dionysus, the Greek god of wine. It was intended to symbolize inclusivity and challenge violence among humans, according to the organizers.

Apology and Reactions

Anne Descamps, a spokesperson for the Paris 2024 committee, expressed regret, stating, “We never intended to disrespect any religious group. Our goal was to celebrate community tolerance. If anyone was offended, we are truly sorry.” 

The performance drew criticism from various quarters. The Catholic Church in France condemned the ceremony as mocking Christianity, while Monsignor Emmanuel Gobilliard noted that the controversy had affected some French athletes.

Archbishop Charles Scicluna of Malta and the Italian bishops’ conference also voiced their discontent, with accusations that the ceremony undermined French culture and offered a negative portrayal of global events.

The Paris Olympics have gone FULL BLOWN. SATANIC.

Going so far as to mock the Last Supper of Christ & have a celebration of worship to Baal/Moloch.

If this isn’t a sign of the times we are living in…

Spiritual warfare FULLY manifesting in the flesh.

This isn’t “satanic… pic.twitter.com/jodig46BcE

— The Patriot Voice (@TPV_John) July 26, 2024

Support and Criticism

Despite the backlash, some supporters defended the performance, praising its message of diversity and inclusion. Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the opening ceremony, clarified that the intention was to celebrate diversity, not to offend.

Global Reactions

The incident has sparked a wider debate about the intersection of cultural expression and respect for religious traditions, reflecting ongoing tensions in the global discourse on diversity and inclusivity.