The Controversy Surrounding Barbara Butch at the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics catapulted the French DJ Barbara Butch into the global spotlight, igniting both acclaim and outrage. Known in France as a bold advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and body positivity, Butch, whose stage name is a playful nod to her persona, made a memorable appearance adorned with a crown and her mixing console during a segment titled “Festivity.”
In a dazzling display that spanned 45 minutes, a diverse array of performers, including drag queens, showcased their artistry along a raised catwalk that dominated the stage. The climax of this segment featured the French singer Philippe Katerine, who emerged dramatically from beneath a massive silver dome, painted entirely in vibrant blue and clad in minimal attire, to perform a rendition of his song “Nude.”
This provocative scene sparked an immediate backlash from segments of the public, particularly those who interpreted it as a satirical take on Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic painting “The Last Supper,” leading to accusations of blasphemy against Christianity. Despite artistic director Thomas Jolly’s clarification that the inspiration stemmed from a grand pagan celebration honoring the gods of Olympus, the outrage persisted. Notably, former President Donald J. Trump labeled the performance “a disgrace” on social media, amplifying the controversy.
In response to the backlash, Butch filed a complaint regarding cyber-harassment, prompting the Paris prosecutor’s office to initiate an investigation into potential discrimination based on religion or sexual orientation. Following suit, Jolly also reported similar threats, leading to an inquiry into his case as well.
Despite the intense scrutiny, Butch has grown accustomed to facing hostility throughout her life. A proud Jewish woman from a working-class background, she spent her childhood above her parents’ restaurant in Paris. Her family history is marked by the specter of antisemitism, which ultimately drove her grandmother to leave France for Israel years ago.
