Controversy Erupts Over 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony’s Depiction of the Last Supper

The 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony, known for its grandeur and theatrical spectacle, has ignited significant controversy, particularly among conservative and religious groups in the United States and beyond. Central to the debate is a modern reinterpretation of Leonardo da Vinci's renowned painting, *The Last Supper*, which incorporated drag performers and other unconventional elements.

Artistic Vision and Backlash

The opening ceremony, celebrated for its opulence and creative flair, featured a fashion show segment that has drawn substantial criticism. In one notable scene, French actor and singer Philippe Katerine portrayed the Greek god Dionysus. Painted blue and minimally adorned, Katerine’s costume included only a strategically placed bunch of flowers. This segment was part of a broader artistic expression that reimagined *The Last Supper* with contemporary and provocative themes.

Critics, especially those from conservative or Christian backgrounds, have voiced strong disapproval of what they perceive as a disrespectful depiction of sacred imagery. Jenna Ellis, a former attorney for Donald Trump’s 2020 campaign, took to social media to condemn the portrayal. She described it as containing “overt pagan and satanic symbolism,” particularly criticizing the replacement of Jesus with an “obese woman” and the inclusion of “queer and trans figures” as the apostles.

Significance of *The Last Supper

The Last Supper is one of the most celebrated works in Christian art, depicting the final meal Jesus Christ shared with his twelve apostles before his crucifixion. Leonardo da Vinci’s depiction, painted in the late 15th century, is renowned for capturing the apostles’ varied reactions to Jesus’ announcement of his impending betrayal.

Artistic Director’s Response

Thomas Jolly, the artistic director behind the opening ceremony, addressed the criticism in a news conference on Saturday. Jolly expressed surprise at the backlash and defended the intent behind the production. “Our goal was not to be subversive,” Jolly stated during an International Olympic Committee media briefing. “We aimed to celebrate diversity and inclusion.” He emphasized that the ceremony was meant to reflect France’s values of artistic freedom and personal liberty. Jolly underscored that the ceremony sought to embrace diversity without any intention of provoking controversy.

Reactions from Public Figures

The controversy prompted responses from various public figures. Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, known for his conservative viewpoints, labeled the depiction as “crazy” in an Instagram post. He referenced the New Testament book Epistle to the Galatians, suggesting that such actions might face divine retribution. Butker’s comment triggered accusations of sexism and homophobia, especially given his previous contentious remarks about women’s roles.

Bishop Emmanuel Gobillard, a spokesperson for the Holy See concerning the Paris Olympics, expressed deep disappointment. He acknowledged that mockery of religion is not uncommon in France but felt that the Olympics, as a global event, made the portrayal especially hurtful and inappropriate.

French far-right politician Marion Marechal-Le Pen criticized the performance as a provocation by a “left-wing minority,” arguing that it did not represent the true essence of France.

Social Media Debate and Cultural Context

The incident fueled a vigorous debate on social media. Elon Musk amplified several memes criticizing the ceremony’s perceived “wokeness.” Kyle Becker, a former Fox News producer, described the event as having “gone full Woke dystopian,” furthering the division among viewers.

British writer and broadcaster David Aaronovitch noted that *The Last Supper* has been subject to numerous pastiches, parodies, and alterations over the centuries, suggesting that the latest reinterpretation is part of a longstanding tradition of artistic experimentation.

In contrast, Bishop Robert Barron of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, Minnesota, questioned whether a similar depiction of a scene from the Quran would have been tolerated, highlighting a perceived double standard in the treatment of religious symbols.

Historical and Cultural Context

The controversy surrounding the Paris Olympics ceremony intersects with broader issues of artistic freedom and religious sensitivity. France’s history includes significant events related to the depiction of religious figures, such as the 2015 attack on the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, which had published controversial cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad. The magazine’s subsequent decision to republish these cartoons underscored the ongoing tensions between freedom of expression and respect for religious beliefs.

Bishop Barron’s commentary reflects a sentiment among some Christian groups that feel increasingly marginalized by contemporary cultural trends. He urged Christians to resist what he perceives as a diminishing respect for religious values in public discourse.

Conclusion

The backlash against the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony highlights the intricate balance between artistic expression and religious sensibilities. While the ceremony aimed to celebrate diversity and inclusivity, the reactions reveal ongoing challenges in respecting deeply held beliefs while pursuing creative freedom. As the Games continue, this controversy underscores the broader dialogue about cultural representation and its impact on global audiences.