S Poddar
Amid growing speculation, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his enthusiasm for the idea of Celine Dion performing at the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony. The celebrated Canadian singer was recently spotted in Paris, sparking rumors about her involvement in the event set to kick off on Friday.
While Macron didn’t confirm her participation, he shared his excitement in an interview with France 2, saying, “It would be fantastic news. I would be immensely happy if she could be at this opening ceremony, like all our compatriots.” However, he kept details under wraps, adding, “I will not reveal anything, what [opening ceremony director] Thomas Jolly and all his teams have prepared. There is also a surprise,” hinting with a smile, “I am not responsible for his schedule.”
Dion, who has made her mark in both English and French music, would be making a significant comeback after being diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome in December 2022, a condition that forced her to cancel several live shows. Her potential performance would be her second at an Olympic opening ceremony, having previously sung at the Atlanta Games in 1996.
Fans were thrilled to see Dion outside her hotel in Paris. Oceane Moulin, a 24-year-old admirer, said, “For me, she’s the best singer and a diva. It’s incredible to see her here in France, especially after everything that’s happened. It’s nice to see her in good shape.”
Speculation also surrounds Lady Gaga, who was seen arriving in Paris on Monday. Known for her powerful performances, she sang Edith Piaf’s “La Vie En Rose” in the 2018 film A Star Is Born. French R&B artist Aya Nakamura is another name in the mix.
The Paris 2024 Olympics will feature a unique opening ceremony held along the River Seine, a departure from the traditional stadium setting. Athletes will parade in boats through the heart of the city, concluding at the iconic Eiffel Tower. Theatre director Thomas Jolly, responsible for designing the show, remained tight-lipped but promised it would be “very meaningful for the artists that will perform.”
As the excitement builds, the world eagerly awaits the opening ceremony to see if these musical powerhouses will grace the stage.
