It was one of the most memorable moments of the opening ceremony, which can be considered the most unique in history, but which generated controversy around the world.
The scene in question was described by some critics as a parody of “The Last Supper” and featured drag performers and several dancers.
The performance and scene in question also included Philippe Katerine, a French performer who played the Greek god of wine, Dionysus, and quickly became known as the “half-naked blue guy.”
In the scene, Katerine sings a song while lying on a table, apparently naked and covered from head to toe in bright blue paint.
His appearance went viral on social media, being watched by millions of people around the world. In an interview with CNN Katerine said her song “Nue” – or “Naked”, “Nu” – was a message of peace, inspired by wars, such as those in Gaza and Ukraine.
“Would there have been wars if we had been naked? The answer is perhaps no because you can’t hide a gun or a dagger when you’re naked,” he said.
“So you have this idea of harmlessness when it comes to the naked man. And the idea of the origins of the Olympic Games in Greece, which are represented today because when you see paintings, they are of naked athletes as well, also with the idea that they cannot carry weapons when they are naked.
“That was also the idea behind the origins of the Olympic Games. So, here I came, simply, to sing this song.”
Olympic organizers apologized for the scene after it was criticized by the Catholic Church and Christian groups.
The French Catholic Church said the festivities “included scenes of mockery and ridicule of Christianity.”
Paris 2024 spokeswoman Anne Descamps later said there was “clearly never any intention to disrespect any religious group”, while opening ceremony director Thomas Jolly insisted “The Last Supper” – a mural painted by Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci – was not the inspiration behind the scene.
Katerine said she was “very sorry” if her appearance shocked people, but confirmed that was never her intention and that the fallout was caused by a “misunderstanding.”
“I was raised a Christian and the best thing about Christianity is forgiveness. To me, it’s the most beautiful thing there is: forgiveness,” he added.
“So I apologize if I have offended anyone, and the Christians of the world will grant me that, I am sure, and will understand that it was mainly a misunderstanding. Because, in the end, it was not about representing ‘the Last Supper’ at all.”
Katerine quickly caught on to the criticism and said she rewatched her performance to find out why people would be upset.
“I saw something very colorful, reconciliatory and peaceful,” he said, adding that he was “surprised.”
The singer said it was the first time he had performed the song and was frustrated that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) refused to use subtitles, which he said led in part to the confusion that ensued.
Despite receiving criticism from some, Katerine was also praised for creating one of the most lasting memories of the lavish ceremony.
He said it took three makeup artists three hours to create his bright blue look. His look also required a full-body waxing – dedication indeed.
“On stage, I’m always very, very happy to perform and show off, within reason of course,” he said.
“But in life, I’m very shy and I like to hide and observe others without being seen. That’s what I prefer. So it’s true that it amuses me to see myself like this, but there you have it.”
(Matias Grez and Chris Liakos, from CNN contributed to the report)
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Source: CNN Brasil
Bruce Belcher is a seasoned author with over 5 years of experience in world news. He writes for online news websites and provides in-depth analysis on the world stock market. Bruce is known for his insightful perspectives and commitment to keeping the public informed.
