The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris opened with a highly controversial and unique ceremony, directed by Thomas Jolly, featuring drag queens and avant-garde performances that sparked mixed reactions. While some praised the inclusion and representation, others, especially Christians, criticized the mockery of religious scenes. The event was also marred by torrential rain, affecting spectators' experiences. Despite the weather, performances by Lady Gaga and French-Malian singer Aya Nakamura, who faced prior racist backlash, stood out. Many athletes, including members of Team USA, chose to skip the ceremony to focus on their events. Social media was abuzz with memes and criticism, highlighting the polarizing nature of the spectacle.