Grammy-winning Canadian singer, Celine Dion, has savored her first performance in four years at the 2024 Olympic Games opening ceremony in Paris, France, on Friday.
The 56-year-old singer delivered a heartfelt rendition of “Hymne à l’amour” by Édith Piaf from the base of the Eiffel Tower, creating an iconic moment.
Dion, who has not performed publicly since 2020 amid her battle with stiff-person’s syndrome, in a statement released after her performance, expressed her joy and gratitude.
She wrote, “I’m honoured to have performed tonight, for the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony, and so full of joy to be back in one of my very favourite cities!”
Dion also praised the athletes for their dedication and hard work.
She wrote, “Most of all, I’m so happy to be celebrating these amazing athletes, with all their stories of sacrifice and determination, pain and perseverance.
“All of you have been so focused on your dream, and whether or not you take home a medal, I hope that being here means that it has come true for you!
“You should all be so proud, we know how hard you have worked to be the best of the best. Stay focused, keep going, my heart is with you!”
This performance marks Dion’s second appearance at the Olympic Games, having previously performed at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics.
TMZ reports that Dion was paid for her highly anticipated performance at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Dion, in an interview with Hoda Kotb on the Today Show, had vowed that she wouldn’t let her Stiff Person Syndrome battle stop her from performing again.
She vowed that she would resume live performances even if she had to crawl to the stage and talk with her hands.