AFRICA MEDIA PRODUCTION AGENCY
Paris 2024 Olympics: Organizers Apologize for Controversial "Last Supper" Scene
Briefing
Description :
Paris, France - The organizers of the Paris 2024 Olympics have issued an apology to anyone who felt offended by a scene during the opening ceremony that appeared to echo Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper." The ceremony, which took place on Sunday, featured DJ and producer Barbara Butch, a prominent LGBTQ+ figure, accompanied by drag performers and dancers in a tableau that many found reminiscent of the famous painting.
Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" captures the moment Jesus Christ announces that one of his apostles will betray him. The depiction at the opening ceremony sparked criticism from various religious groups worldwide. The French Catholic Church's bishops' conference criticized the scene for mocking Christianity, a sentiment shared by Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. Additionally, Egypt's Anglican Communion expressed "deep regret," suggesting the ceremony risked undermining the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) unique sporting identity and humanist message.
Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the ceremony, distanced himself from the comparison to "The Last Supper," clarifying that his intent was to celebrate diversity and French gastronomy. He cited inspiration from the "Festin des Dieux" (Banquet of the Gods) by Dutch painter Jan Harmensz van Bijlert, rather than da Vinci's work.
Anne Descamps, spokeswoman for Paris 2024, addressed the controversy during an IOC news conference on Sunday. She emphasized that the organizers had no intention of disrespecting any religious group. "With Thomas Jolly, we aimed to celebrate community tolerance," Descamps stated. "According to our surveys, we believe this goal was achieved. However, if people were offended, we are deeply sorry."
In his comments to The Associated Press, Mr. Jolly reiterated that his objective was not to be subversive or provocative. "My intention is to convey a message of love and inclusion, not division," he explained.
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