Last night, the 2024 Paris Olympic Games opening ceremony took place and sparked a flurry of reactions online, with some calling the event “divisive” and others accusing it of promoting “trans propaganda” and “Satanism”. Despite the heavy rain, around 300,000 people gathered by the Seine to watch the armada of boats carrying athletes ahead of the ceremony.
The opening show featured musical performances from Lady Gaga, Celine Dion, and French metal band Gojira. Dion’s performance was particularly heartwarming, marking her return to the stage after not performing for four years due to a diagnosis of stiff person syndrome. However, other elements of the show, such as performances by drag and trans performers, as well as a recreation of the Last Supper, received a less warm response.
Far-right commentators criticised the inclusion of trans and drag performers, with some taking the conversation to a more extreme level by accusing the show of promoting “Satanism”. Others accused it of trans propaganda. The event also raised concerns about the Israel-Gaza conflict, with some viewers celebrating the presence of Palestinian athletes.
Despite the criticisms, the event was an overall success and a symbol of unity, with the President of France Emmanuel Macron stating, “The whole world will be watching us”. The performances dazzled fans around the world and the athletes showcased their talents and sportsmanship to a captivated audience
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