The opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games has sparked significant controversy, particularly due to a provocative reinterpretation of Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper'. Featuring drag queens, a transgender model, and a DJ as Jesus, the performance drew both acclaim and outrage from various segments of society.
Political and religious figures expressed strong disapproval, labeling the portrayal as 'Christianophobic' and a mockery of Christianity. The French episcopate issued a statement condemning the scenes as 'derision and mockery', while also acknowledging the ceremony's moments of beauty.
Conversely, some on the political left defended the artistic choices, emphasizing the historical significance of blasphemy in French culture and praising the ceremony's audacity.
