Former President Donald Trump has harshly condemned the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics, calling it a “disgrace.”
His remarks come amid widespread criticism of the event’s controversial religious imagery.
The Olympic organizers have issued an apology following backlash over a segment that drew inspiration from Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.”
This depiction, which captures the moment Jesus Christ announces an impending betrayal by one of his apostles, has been described as offensive by many.
During the ceremony, DJ and producer Barbara Butch, a well-known LGBTQ+ figure, was accompanied by drag performers and dancers.
Among the contentious elements, one dancer was reportedly seen with exposed genitals.
Religious conservatives globally have expressed their disapproval, with Trump adding his voice to the chorus of criticism.
Speaking to Fox News, he labeled the opening ceremony as “a disgrace,” reaffirming his stance with a second mention of the term.
Looking ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Trump assured that such controversial portrayals would not be part of the festivities.
He emphasized his support for diversity but maintained that the Paris ceremony was poorly executed.
The French Catholic Church’s bishops have condemned the ceremony as disrespectful to Christianity.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova and the Anglican Communion in Egypt also voiced their discontent, with the latter expressing concern that the IOC might lose its sporting identity and humanitarian message.
Donald Trump Jr. criticized the ceremony as “satanic,” referencing his mother’s Olympian past and expressing disappointment in the current state of the games.
He noted that the controversial aspects of the ceremony have diminished interest in the Olympics among his acquaintances.
Director’s Clarification and Apologies
Despite the uproar, Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the ceremony, clarified that the segment was not intended to mimic “The Last Supper.” He explained that the goal was to celebrate diversity and French culinary traditions.
Anne Descamps, a Paris 2024 organizer, has apologized for any offense caused.
In a press conference, she emphasized that the ceremony aimed to promote community tolerance and expressed regret if any religious groups felt disrespected.
Public Reaction and Boycott Threats
The backlash has prompted many to call for a boycott of the Paris Games, with hashtags like #boycottOlympics and #boycottParis2024 trending on social media.
Critics, including comedian Rob Schneider, have denounced the ceremony as an affront to Christianity and criticized its “satanic” elements. Schneider, a former Saturday Night Live cast member, declared that he cannot support the Olympics under these circumstances.
Conclusion
The opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics has ignited significant controversy, drawing criticism from various quarters and leading to calls for boycotts.
As the games approach, the impact of this contentious event continues to reverberate across the globe.
TDPel Media
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn