The curtain fell on the extraordinary Paris Olympics with a vibrant closing ceremony brimming with music, acrobatics and a touch of Hollywood magic. The Stade de France shook with excitement as the baton was passed to Los Angeles, the host city of the 2028 Summer Games.
The West Coast Meets the Champs-Élysées
Los Angeles’ Olympic journey began with a taste of California sunshine. Snoop Dogg, a regular presence during the Paris Games, gave a pre-recorded performance from Long Beach. His iconic “Drop It Like It’s Hot” seamlessly transitioned into a classic collaboration with Dr. Dre, as they brought “The Next Episode” back for a virtual reunion on the West Coast.
Emotional Tributes and Electrifying Shows
Closer to home, Billie Eilish’s powerful voice captivated the audience with “Birds of a Feather” from her latest album. The Red Hot Chili Peppers set the stage alight with their legendary 2003 hit “Can’t Stop,” keeping the energy high.
Tom Cruise, known for his daring stunts, lived up to his reputation with a heart-stopping pre-recorded sequence. He rappelled from the top of the stadium while HER played a catchy guitar solo. The sequence continued with Cruise riding a motorcycle through the streets of Paris before hopping into a plane that parachuted into a field—a fittingly dramatic farewell to the City of Lights.
The award ceremony: a musical tapestry
HER, a rising star in American music, graced the stage with a soulful rendition of the U.S. national anthem, accompanied by Simone Biles and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. She continued her musical journey during the award ceremony, brandishing her custom Stratocaster for a powerful performance.
The Parisian music scene also shone. French singer and model Yseult gave a touching rendition of “My Way,” a classic covered by artists such as Frank Sinatra. Closing the show with a flourish, Grammy Award-winning band Phoenix had the audience and even some athletes dancing with their electrifying performances of “Lisztomania” and “If I Ever Feel Better.”
The closing ceremony of Paris 2024 was a vibrant farewell to the Olympic spirit, leaving an indelible memory of an unforgettable summer, rich in sporting excellence and artistic talent.
