Star-Studded Spectacle Marks End of Paris Olympics, Heralds LA 2028

The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris concluded with a spectacular closing ceremony on August 11, 2024, featuring a blend of French artistry and international star power. The event, held at the Stade de France, showcased performances from renowned artists and set the stage for the upcoming 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles.

Tom Cruise took center stage with a daring stunt, rappelling from the top of the 80,000-seat stadium. After landing, he was surrounded by athletes and received the Olympic flag from Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, accompanied by gymnast Simone Biles. Cruise then embarked on a symbolic journey, transporting the flag from Paris to Los Angeles via motorcycle and airplane, culminating in a skydive near the iconic Hollywood Sign.

The ceremony featured performances by a diverse array of artists. French singer Zaho de Sagazan opened with a rendition of Édith Piaf's "Sous le ciel de Paris," paying homage to France's rich musical heritage. The event also showcased electronic music, with French bands Justice and M83 contributing to the energetic atmosphere.

In Los Angeles, Billie Eilish performed her hit "Birds of a Feather" from a lifeguard stand, while Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre delivered a collaborative performance. The Red Hot Chili Peppers kicked off the pre-recorded concert with their 2002 hit "Can't Stop," embodying the spirit of the upcoming Los Angeles Games.

The ceremony's stage, shaped like a world map, served as a canvas for French artistry and choreography. Acrobats raised the Olympic rings to the stadium ceiling, creating a visually stunning display. French President Emmanuel Macron observed the proceedings as commentators praised the "unreal" spectacle.

"God, the French are cool."

The event also saw enthusiastic participation from athletes, who rushed the stage during Phoenix's performance of "Lisztomania." The band was later joined by Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend, adding to the early 2000s nostalgia that permeated the ceremony.

As the three-hour program drew to a close, Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee, succinctly concluded the event with the words, "And that's it!"

This closing ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of the Paris 2024 Olympics but also symbolized the passing of the torch to Los Angeles for the 2028 Summer Games. It marked the end of Paris's third time hosting the Olympics, following the 1900 and 1924 Games, and set the stage for Los Angeles to join the elite group of cities that have hosted the Olympics three times.

The ceremony's blend of French culture and American star power highlighted the universal appeal of the Olympic Games, embodying the Olympic motto "Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together." As the world looks ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the Paris closing ceremony will be remembered as a fitting end to a global celebration of athletic excellence and international unity.