Paris Olympics organizers issue apology for 'The Last Supper' spectacle

"Clearly there was never an intention to show disrespect," say organizers, addressing the backlash.

The opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics became the center of global controversy following a tableau that evoked Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” featuring DJ and producer Barbara Butch alongside drag artists and dancers. 

The segment, intended to pay homage to feasting and French gastronomy, drew sharp criticism from religious conservatives worldwide, including the French Catholic Church’s conference of bishops and the Russian Foreign Ministry, both condemning the act as a mockery of Christianity.

During an International Olympic Committee news conference on Sunday, Paris 2024 spokesperson Anne Descamps addressed the backlash, stating, “Clearly there was never an intention to show disrespect to any religious group. On the contrary, I think (with) Thomas Jolly, we really did try to celebrate community tolerance.” 

Descamps also mentioned polling data suggesting that the ceremony's inclusive message was well-received by many.

Artistic director Thomas Jolly spoke to The Associated Press, clarifying his vision for the ceremony. 

“My wish isn’t to be subversive, nor to mock or to shock,” Jolly expressed. “Most of all, I wanted to send a message of love, a message of inclusion and not at all to divide.”