‘Last Supper’ depiction during Paris Olympics opening ceremony sparks anger

The Paris Olympics opening ceremony left the world dazzled with its spectacular, inclusive performances by international entertainment stars but a crew of drag queens and dancers drew the wrath of many after they showcased an apparent parody of the ‘Last Supper’ on Friday.

A group of 18 performers posed behind what looked like a table during their performance, clearly seeming to be a recreation of the iconic religious moment in Christianity which in the famous Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci’s painting represents the scene of the Last Supper of Jesus with the Twelve Apostles, as it is told in the Gospel of John.

At the centre of the performers was an ornately dressed woman with a plunging neckline and sporting a large silver headdress that resembled a halo as depicted in paintings of Jesus Christ.

The woman was seen smiling towards the camera and making a heart gesture with her hands.

To add to the “absurdity,” a massive serving tray was planted on the stage — revealing a scantily dressed man, painted head to toe in sparkling blue, curled up inside, reported New York Post.

Online users were quick in criticising the performance and shared their remarks across social media platforms.

Jenna Ellis wrote on X: “In this scene from the Olympic opening ceremony, the famous painting of The Last Supper is recreated, but Jesus is replaced with an obese woman, while queer and trans figures (including a child!) depict her apostles. Overt pagan and satanic symbolism.”

Another netizen named Graham Allen wrote: “This is a MOCKERY OF JESUS CHRIST. The Olympics decided to include a *child* in their hyper-s*xualized rendition of The Last SupperThis is SHAMEFUL”

Another Brent said: ” As a Christian, I’m infuriated [sic.] the Olympics mocked The Last Supper by replacing The Lord and his Apostles with people Jesus would’ve told us to love and respect.”

Netizen Niall Boylan said: “I’m not religious, but the French depiction of the Last Supper is blatant disrespect and incitement. Jesus is portrayed as a woman and the disciples as transvestites. I wonder why they didn’t mock Islam in a similar way. Actually, don’t answer as I know why.”

Paris is hosting the Olympics for the third time after 1900 and 1924.

The Last Supper is the final meal that, in the Gospel accounts, Jesus shared with his apostles in Jerusalem before his crucifixion.

The Last Supper is commemorated by Christians especially on Holy Thursday.