In a mesmerizing display of talent and showmanship, Lady Gaga officially opened the Paris 2024 Olympics with a stunning pre-recorded performance on Friday. Despite the seamless portrayal of a live spectacle, the pop megastar’s set along the picturesque Seine River was actually filmed several hours before the event, a strategic move unbeknownst to the millions watching worldwide.
The Grammy Award-winning artist performed an evocative tribute to the legendary French entertainer Zizi Jeanmaire, captivating audiences with her rendition of the classic song “Mon Truc en Plumes.” The Associated Press reported that Gaga was seen warming up on stage approximately three hours prior to the commencement of the official ceremony. Following a vigorous hour-long performance, she exited the stage amidst waves and cheers from a captivated gathering of fans.
The performance itself was intricately planned and choreographed, reflecting the meticulous approach that goes into orchestrating an event of such global stature. Olympic and Paralympic opening ceremony choreographer, Maud le Pladec, shed light on the reasoning behind the decision to pre-record Gaga’s performance. “For safety reasons, we had to pre-record late in the afternoon, once we knew for sure that it was going to rain – we had minute-by-minute updates, we had never watched the weather forecast so closely in our lives,” stated Pladec.
She further explained, “We assessed that it was going to be too dangerous for performers, even with a few drops of rain. [Gaga] wanted to do it absolutely so we preferred to pre-record it rather than cancel it. The soil would have been slippery. She was wearing heels, very near the water, there were stairs… We had to be extremely cautious.” It was a decision taken in the best interest of everyone’s safety, ensuring that the grandeur of the performance was maintained without any potential hazards.
Once her segment concluded, Lady Gaga retreated to her dressing room, watching the remainder of the ceremony in more comfortable surroundings before heading back to her hotel.
. The iconic singer later took to social media to express her gratitude and share her reflections on the unique experience.
“I feel so completely grateful to have been asked to open the Paris @Olympics 2024 this year. I am also humbled to be asked by the Olympics organizing committee to sing such a special French song—a song to honor the French people and their tremendous history of art, music, and culture,” Gaga posted. She elaborated on her deep affinity for French art and her desire to create a performance that resonated deeply with the French audience. “Although I am not a French artist, I have always felt a very special connection with 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, and on such a momentous occasion remind everyone of one of the most magical cities on earth—Paris,” she added.
This year’s opening ceremony was an essential milestone for the Paris 2024 Olympics, setting the tone for the games ahead. With Lady Gaga’s sparkling performance as a highlight, the ceremony celebrated French culture, history, and the artistic heritage that the country is renowned for.
The decision to pre-record such a crucial part of the ceremony showcased the organizing committee’s adeptness at planning for every possible eventuality. It also underscored their commitment to ensuring that the spectacle remained visually stunning while prioritizing safety amidst unpredictable weather conditions.
Lady Gaga’s engagement in the opening ceremony served as a brilliant depiction of international collaboration and the universal language of music that bridges cultural divides. Her performance was not merely a tribute to a French icon, but also a testament to the inclusive and global spirit that the Olympics embody.
Indeed, the 2024 Paris Olympics are off to an exhilarating start, thanks to a vibrant and technically flawless commencement that blended the charm of live performance with the precision of pre-recorded programming. As the games proceed, the world will undoubtedly look back on Lady Gaga’s opening act as a highlight of this year’s event—a shining example of artistry and athleticism converging on the global stage.
