French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed outrage over the cyberbullying and threats faced by the choreographer of the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony. Despite widespread praise for the ceremony, a controversial scene featuring religious imagery sparked criticism from various quarters, leading to threats and defamation against artist Thomas Jolly and other participants. Macron, along with Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, has voiced strong support for Jolly, condemning the attacks and emphasizing the importance of artistic freedom and respect.
BulletsIn
- French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the cyberbullying of Thomas Jolly, the choreographer of the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony.
- The ceremony, although largely praised, included a scene that was interpreted by some as resembling “The Last Supper,” which provoked backlash.
- The criticism came from the Catholic Church, far-right politicians in France, and the religious right in the United States.
- Macron expressed his outrage and sadness over the threats and insults Jolly and others have received.
- Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo voiced her unwavering support for Jolly, praising his artistic contributions and affirming Paris’s commitment to artistic freedom.
- Jolly reported receiving death threats, insults, and defamation related to his sexual orientation and falsely assumed Israeli roots.
- French DJ and LGBTQ+ activist Barbara Butch, who also participated in the ceremony, has filed a complaint about cyberbullying and threats.
- The Paris Prosecutors’ Office is investigating the threats and defamation, with the Central Office for Combating Crimes Against Humanity and Hate Crimes leading the probe.
- The controversial scene featured drag queens, a transgender model, and a naked performer dressed as Dionysus, the Greek god of wine.
- Organizers of Paris 2024 and Jolly have apologized for any offense caused, clarifying that the scene was intended to depict a pagan feast, not a religious statement.
