The aftermath of the Paris Olympics Open Ceremony has left French DJ Barbara Butch in a state of distress after she received a barrage of threatening online messages. The ceremony, which featured a scene celebrating sexual diversity and inclusion entitled “Festivity”, included Butch among other participants like Nicky Doll and former Drag Race France contestants. Despite the positive message behind the scene, Butch found herself at the receiving end of a vicious cyber-harassment campaign filled with death threats, torture, and rape threats as well as anti-Semitic, homophobic, sexist, and anti-grossophobic insults.
The controversy surrounding the scene stemmed from misconceptions that it was inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. However, the ceremony’s artistic director, Thomas Jolly, clarified that the tableau was actually inspired by Greek mythology, specifically featuring a figure representing the Greek god Dionysus. This clarification debunked any correlation to the iconic painting depicting Jesus’s last meal with the 12 apostles, but the damage had already been done as public figures both in and outside of France, along with church leaders, had already expressed their condemnation of the scene.
In light of the cyber-harassment and defamation directed towards her, Barbara Butch’s lawyer, Audrey Msellati, released a statement on behalf of Butch condemning the hatred and intimidation. Butch’s commitment to inclusivity and love for others has always been at the core of her artistic projects, promoting festivity for all regardless of differences. In response to the attacks, Butch has decided to file several complaints against those responsible, regardless of their nationality, and has vowed to pursue legal action against any future attempts to threaten or intimidate her.
Despite the initial misconception regarding the inspiration behind the scene, the Magnin Museum in Dijon, France, suggested that the tableau bore resemblance to The Feast of the Gods by 17th Century Dutch painter Jan van Bijlert. This alternative interpretation sheds light on the artistic influences that may have shaped the controversial scene, connecting it to a different artistic source than initially assumed.
Prior to the clarification provided by Thomas Jolly, prominent figures both within and outside of France expressed their disapproval of the scene, citing its alleged connection to The Last Supper. High-profile individuals such as NFL player Harrison Butker, Republican politician Mike Johnson, and Speaker of the House Candace Cameron Bure voiced their concerns before the true inspiration behind the tableau was revealed.
The Paris Olympics Open Ceremony’s scene featuring Barbara Butch and other participants sparked a wave of controversy due to misinterpretations regarding its artistic inspiration. The cyber-harassment faced by Butch serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of online hate and the necessity of standing up against such vitriol. As the dust settles on this polarizing event, it remains a testament to the power of art to provoke discussion, challenge perceptions, and inspire change.
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