Following the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics, DJ Barbara Butch, who participated in a drag queen sequence during the event, became the target of controversy.
Some viewers interpreted the scene as a reference to The Last Supper and started targeting Butch, filling her with hate comments and death treats.
The ceremony’s artistic director, Thomas Jolly, denied this interpretation, stating that the tableau was inspired by Greek mythology. Some art experts supported Jolly’s explanation, noting similarities to paintings of Greek gods.
The interpretation of the Greek God Dionysus makes us aware of the absurdity of violence between human beings. #Paris2024 #OpeningCeremony pic.twitter.com/FBlQNNUmvV
— The Olympic Games (@Olympics) July 26, 2024
Barbara Butch’s lawyer revealed that the DJ has been subjected to threats of death, torture, and rape, as well as numerous antisemitic, homophobic, sexist, and grossophobic insults.
Butch described the online harassment as “cyber-harassment,” with the messages becoming increasingly extreme.
French authorities typically review complaints before deciding on a formal investigation. Jolly reiterated that his inspiration came from Greek mythology and aimed to celebrate diversity without intending to be subversive or disrespectful.
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Despite the artistic intent, some viewers were offended, believing the scene to be a mockery of The Last Supper. French Catholic bishops also expressed their disapproval, stating that Christians were hurt by the performance. During the sequence, Butch wore a silver headdress resembling a halo, surrounded by drag artists and dancers.
Paris Olympics organizers stated that the ceremony aimed to celebrate community tolerance and had no intention of disrespecting any religious group.
In her own statement, Barbara Butch expressed that she has always been proud of who she is and refuses to be silenced by hate:
“Whatever some may say, I exist. I’ve never been ashamed of who I am, and I take responsibility for everything — including my artistic choices. All my life, I’ve refused to be a victim: I won’t shut up.”
Butch’s lawyer, Audrey Msellati, announced that they are filing multiple complaints against those responsible for the online abuse, whether they are French nationals or foreigners. Butch echoed this sentiment on Instagram, declaring her pride in her identity and her artistic choices.
In a scene that also featured French drag queen Nicky Doll and former contestants from Drag Race France, Butch expressed her honor in performing at the ceremony, stating that her heart remains full of joy.
Following the outcry and online abuse, French prosecutors have tasked a specialized police unit with investigating the discriminatory messages based on religion or sexual orientation sent to Butch.
The ceremony’s controversial moment saw Butch performing in a silver headdress, surrounded by drag artists and dancers. The subsequent scene featured performer Philippe Katerine as a tribute to Dionysus, painted blue.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump also weighed in, criticizing the performance as disgraceful. Despite the backlash, Jolly emphasized that the scene was meant to celebrate love, inclusion, and diversity, and not to divide or mock any religious beliefs.
