The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has removed a video of the Paris 2024 Summer Games opening ceremony from its YouTube channel following significant global backlash. The controversy centers around a segment perceived as a blasphemous LGBTQ-themed parody of Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper,’ which featured drag queens, homosexuals, and trans individuals posing as Jesus Christ and his apostles.
The 26-minute highlight video titled ‘LET THE GAMES BEGIN! | #Paris2024 Opening Ceremony Highlights’ is no longer available, with comments disabled. NBC Sports, the Games’ official U.S. broadcaster, also removed a similar video. The IOC has not provided a reason for the removal.
Paris 2024 spokesperson Anne Descamps apologised, stating there was no intention to disrespect any religious group and that the ceremony aimed to celebrate community tolerance. The removal of the video led to further criticism on social media, with many users expressing outrage over the ceremony’s portrayal.
