Olympic Organizers Issue Apology
Today we’re diving into some drama from the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony. French drag performer Karl Sanchez, known by his stage name Nicky Doll, has been at the center of a controversy after carrying the Olympic flame and performing in a segment that some felt mocked Christianity.
So, here’s the backstory: the opening ceremony featured a scene that some interpreted as a portrayal of the Last Supper, causing quite a stir among Christian viewers. Nicky Doll took to social media to address the backlash, poking fun at those upset by the display of queerness. In an Instagram Story viewed by Fox News, he quipped, “The opening ceremony did ruffle some feathers… and I LOVE it.” He emphasized the importance of queer representation on such a global stage, declaring, “WE AIN’T GOING NOWHERE.”
In another post, Doll expressed his honor at performing in front of billions and celebrating the Olympians. Amid the controversy, he clarified that the scene was meant to depict a feast of the Greek god Dionysius, not the Last Supper. However, the performer who played Jesus in the recreation of Leonardo Da Vinci’s painting seemed to confirm the Christian link in a now-deleted Instagram post.
Paris 2024 spokesperson Anne Descamps addressed the criticism, stressing that there was no intention to disrespect any religious group. She highlighted the ceremony’s goal of celebrating community tolerance and expressed regret if anyone was offended.
This is crazy. Opening your event by replacing Jesus and the disciples at the The Last Supper with men in drag. There are 2.4 billion Christians on earth and apparently the Olympics wanted to declare loudly to all of them, right out of the gate
NOT WELCOME pic.twitter.com/T88AmXbqXL— Clint Russell (@LibertyLockPod) July 26, 2024
The segment in question, performed on the Debilly Bridge, featured DJ and producer Barbara Butch—a notable LGBTQ+ icon—alongside drag artists and dancers. While the scene aimed to portray a celebration linked to Dionysus, critics saw parallels to the Last Supper, particularly given the halo-like headdress Butch wore.
Artistic director Thomas Jolly explained that the inspiration came from Jan Harmensz van Biljert’s 17th-century painting “The Feast of the Gods,” depicting a banquet of Greek gods. He insisted that the intent was never to mock or shock but to celebrate diversity and French gastronomy.
Despite these clarifications, religious conservatives voiced their discontent. The French Catholic Church’s conference of bishops and Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova were among those who criticized the scene. The Anglican Communion in Egypt also expressed deep regret, concerned about the IOC’s image.
Far-right French politician Marion Maréchal and Romanian influencer Andrew Tate, who is currently awaiting trial for serious charges, also condemned the performance. Maréchal attributed the act to a provocative left-wing minority, while Tate and his brother called for an Olympic boycott.
Descamps reiterated the ceremony’s intent to promote inclusivity and tolerance, acknowledging the mixed reactions. Jolly echoed this sentiment, emphasizing his aim to send a message of love and inclusion, not division.