Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony Tableau Evokes Controversy
Christian Community Outraged by Parody of The Last Supper
Apology Issued by Organizers
Organizers of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games have apologized for a tableau featured in the opening ceremony that drew criticism from the Christian community. The tableau, which featured athletes seated at a table with one figure in the center with outstretched arms, was seen by some as a parody of Leonardo da Vinci's famous painting The Last Supper.
The performance, which was intended to represent the Olympic values of friendship and unity, was met with outrage from church leaders and conservative commentators. In a statement, the organizers apologized for any offense caused and denied that there was any intention to disrespect any religious group.
"The tableau was intended to be a tribute to the Olympic ideals of friendship and unity, and we deeply regret that it has been interpreted in a way that has caused offense," the statement said. "We would like to assure all those who have been offended that we had no intention of showing disrespect to any religious group, and we apologize for any pain or distress that this may have caused."
Komentar