Paris Olympics opening surrounded by controversies: "Blue man" speaks out

The opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris will be remembered as an extremely controversial moment. One of the standout individuals that day was the "blue man," Philippe Katerine. The French artist spoke about the entire event in an interview with CNN, defending the memorable moment and asking for forgiveness.

The opening ceremony of the Summer Olympic Games in Paris, which took place on 26 July 2024, created a global stir and sparked significant controversy worldwide. A particularly contentious part of the ceremony resembled a scene from the "Last Supper." The show featured drag queens, a transgender model, and an artist disguised as Dionysus.

The central figure was the French artist Philippe Katerine, who portrayed the aforementioned Greek god of wine, Dionysus. Katerine, known as the "half-naked blue man," sang the song "Nue" – "Naked," lying on a table covered from head to toe in sparkling blue paint.

His performance quickly went viral on social media, viewed by people around the world.

In an interview with CNN, Katerine explained that the inspiration for the piece was the conflict in Gaza and Ukraine, and his song and appearance conveyed a message of peace.

Would there have been wars if we'd stayed naked? The answer is perhaps not because you can't hide a gun or a dagger when you're naked – said Philippe Katerine in the interview with CNN.

The "blue man" also said that nudity symbolizes vulnerability and references the origins of the Olympic Games in ancient Greece. Back then, athletes were naked to prevent the carrying of weapons.

The Olympic Games organisers apologised for this scene after facing criticism from the Catholic Church and Christian groups. The spokesperson for the Games, Anne Descamps, assured that the organisers did not intend to show disrespect towards any religious group. Thomas Jolly, the ceremony director, emphasised that Leonardo da Vinci’s "Last Supper" was not the inspiration for this scene.

Philippe Katerine himself expressed "deep regret" if his performance shocked people, confirming it was never his intention.

I was brought up as a Christian and the best thing about Christianity is forgiveness. For me, it’s the most beautiful thing there is: forgiveness. So I ask for forgiveness if I have offended anyone, and the Christians of the world will grant me that, I’m sure, and will understand that it was mostly a misunderstanding. Because when it comes down to it, it wasn’t about representing ‘the Last Supper’ at all – said the artist.

Katerine admitted that after the wave of criticism, he rewatched his performance. He tried to understand why it stirred such strong emotions.

I saw something very colorful, reconciliatory and peaceful – said the "blue man," adding that he was surprised by the reaction.

The artist also expressed frustration that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) refused to use subtitles for his song, which, in his opinion, contributed to the misunderstandings. It is worth adding that despite the wave of criticism, Katerine was also praised for creating an unforgettable moment in the ceremony.

On stage, I’m always very, very happy to perform and show off, within the limits of reason, of course. But in life, I’m very shy and 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 – concluded Katerine.