Former US President Donald Trump has vehemently criticized the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, labeling it a “disgrace.” The ceremony has sparked outrage among some viewers, particularly over a scene that critics allege parodied Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic painting “The Last Supper.”
Trump, who is seeking the Republican nomination for president in the upcoming November elections, expressed his disapproval during an appearance on Fox News’ “The Ingraham Angle.” “I thought that the opening ceremony was a disgrace, actually. I thought it was a disgrace,” he stated.
The opening ceremony has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising its artistic vision and others condemning its perceived mockery of Christian imagery. The scene in question featured a group of transgender performers seated at a table, resembling the disciples in “The Last Supper.”
Trump’s criticism has been echoed by other conservative figures, including House Speaker Mike Johnson. In a post on social media, Johnson denounced the ceremony as “shocking and insulting to Christian people around the world.”
The controversy surrounding the opening ceremony has highlighted the ongoing debate over the role of religion and cultural sensitivity in major sporting events. Some argue that the ceremony’s portrayal of Christian imagery was disrespectful, while others defend it as a form of artistic expression.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has not yet commented on the controversy. However, the organization has previously stated that it is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion at the Olympic Games.
The opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics has sparked a heated debate over the intersection of art, religion, and cultural sensitivity. As the Games continue, it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact the overall atmosphere and perception of the event.