Celine Dion’s Paris Olympics Performance Faces Backlash Called Fake

October 13, 2024: Celine Dion’s powerful comeback at the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony has been overshadowed by controversy, as reports claim her stunning ‘live’ performance was pre-recorded. The 56-year-old singer, who performed Hymne à l’amour from the top of the Eiffel Tower, is now facing criticism after French newspaper Libération alleged that the performance was not live, sparking outrage among some fans.

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Lip-Sync Controversy
The accusations surfaced on October 11, just a day after Dion released her new single, Hymne à l’amour – Live from the Olympic Games Paris 2024, on streaming platforms. The song, originally popularised by French icon Édith Piaf, was the closing act of the Olympics’ opening ceremony.

In its article titled, “Did Celine Dion Lip-Sync During the Olympic Opening Ceremony?”, Libération cited industry insiders who claimed her performance was undoubtedly pre-recorded. Composer and performer Etienne Guéreau told the outlet, “What we heard on TV was a corrected playback,” while an anonymous sound engineer alleged, “It was 100% playback, you can hear it from the first notes.”

Fans React
The report has sparked mixed reactions from Celine Dion’s fanbase. While some fans were disappointed, others defended the singer, saying her vocal brilliance remained unaffected. “What is this need to tarnish and denigrate? Celine Dion’s vocal performance is admirable regardless,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Another added, “She’s sick. Let her lip-sync. Who cares — she was great either way.”

Some fans dismissed the controversy altogether, expressing that the performance’s emotional impact was what mattered most. “WE DON’T CARE ABOUT YOUR CONTROVERSIES! Congratulations to Celine Dion for her performance!” said one supporter, while others focused on her health issues, reminding critics that Dion has been battling stiff-person syndrome, which has kept her away from the stage for years.

Celine’s Return to the Stage
Celine Dion’s performance at the Paris Olympics marked her return after a three-year hiatus due to severe health struggles. During the emotionally charged performance, Dion was seen holding back tears as she sang Piaf’s Hymne à l’amour, standing atop the Eiffel Tower in a stunning high-neck gown adorned with crystals and beaded tassels.

Despite reports claiming the singer was paid $2 million for the performance, an official representative for the Olympics clarified, “Contrary to some media reports, the performers at the Paris 2024 Games ceremonies will not receive a fee for their performance.”

While the singer has yet to respond to the lip-sync allegations, fans continue to show their support, emphasising that Dion’s courage and artistry shine through regardless of whether the performance was live or pre-recorded.