Last Friday, Celine Dion and Lady Gaga performed at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
Prior to the event, TMZ and other media outlets claimed that the two singers would be “handsomely paid.” One report even suggested that Dion would receive $2 million for her performance and that all travel expenses to France would be covered.
Watch Celine Dion’s Stunning Performance
However, a representative denied this claim to Page Six, stating: “Contrary to some media reports, performers at the Paris 2024 Games’ ceremonies will not receive any payment for their performances. Their decision to appear under these conditions reflects their desire to be part of a historic event for France and the world of sports.”
Lady Gaga’s Impressive Appearance
Celine Dion: “It’s an Honor to Have Performed”
In a post following her performance, Celine Dion shared the following message: “It’s an honor to have performed tonight at the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony, and I’m so happy to have returned to one of my favorite cities! Above all, I’m thrilled to celebrate these amazing athletes, with all their stories of sacrifice and determination, pain and perseverance. You have all focused so much on your dream, and whether you win a medal or not, I hope your presence here means that your dream has come true! You should all be so proud; we know how hard you worked to become the best of the best. Stay focused, keep going, my heart is with you!”
Lady Gaga: “It’s a Gift I Will Never Forget”
Lady Gaga also shared a post about the opening ceremony in Paris. The singer expressed her gratitude and emotion about being invited to sing at the Paris Olympics and explained her preparation.
Lady Gaga wrote in detail: “I feel so grateful to have been asked to open the Paris Olympics this year. I am also moved that the Olympic organizing committee asked me to sing such a special French song—a tribute to the French people and their immense history in art, music, and theater. This song was performed by Zizi Jeanmaire, who was born in Paris. A French ballerina who famously sang ‘Mon Truc en Plumes’ in 1961. The title means ‘My Thing with Feathers.’ And it’s not the first time our paths have crossed. Zizi starred in Cole Porter’s musical ‘Anything Goes,’ which was my first jazz release.
Although I am not French, I have always felt a very special connection with the French people and singing French music—I wanted nothing more than to create a performance that would warm the heart of France, celebrate French art and music on such an important occasion, and remind everyone of one of the most magical cities in the world—Paris. We rented pom poms from the Le Lido archive—a real French cabaret theater. We collaborated with Dior to create special costumes, using naturally dried feathers. I studied French choreography that gave a modern twist to a classic French piece. I rehearsed tirelessly to learn a joyful French dance, refreshing some old skills—I bet you didn’t know I danced at a French party in the ’60s on the Lower East Side when I first started! I hope you love this performance as much as I do. And to everyone in France, thank you so much for welcoming me to your country to sing in your honor—it’s a gift I will never forget! Congratulations to all the athletes competing in this year’s Olympics! It is my greatest honor to sing for you and cheer you on!!! Watching the Olympics always makes me cry! Your talent is incredible. Let the Games begin!”
