Police probe hate speech against Olympics opening ceremony artistic director Thomas Jolly
PARIS — Paris authorities announced on Friday that law enforcement has initiated an investigation into hate speech following a report by Olympics opening ceremony creative director Thomas Jolly regarding threatening messages.
According to a statement from the Paris prosecutor’s office, Jolly lodged a formal complaint with the police on Tuesday, just four days after the commencement event, citing threats of violence, “public derogatory remarks,” and “slander.”
The statement revealed that Jolly has faced “threatening communications and insults on social media platforms targeting his sexual orientation and erroneously assumed Israeli heritage.” The Central Office for Combating Crimes Against Humanity and Hate Crimes in France has been tasked with handling the inquiry.
Jolly’s grievance comes in the aftermath of the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony, which sparked a wave of indignation, including critical remarks from Donald Trump, following a controversial segment showcasing drag performers. Despite Jolly’s assertions that his work was not influenced by “The Last Supper,” critics interpreted a portion of the presentation as a parody of Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous painting depicting Jesus Christ and his disciples.
French President Emmanuel Macron voiced his unwavering support for Jolly and all artists involved in the opening ceremony.
“I am deeply disturbed and disheartened,” Macron expressed regarding the threats and online harassment directed at Jolly and others. “There is no justification for threatening an artist,” Macron emphasized.
“The French people took great pride in the opening ceremony, which showcased France’s history, spirit of adventure, and boldness, all while upholding artistic freedom, a fundamental value for us,” Macron stated.
Jolly’s “bold artistic expression during the opening ceremony brought joy to many individuals,” he added.
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo also expressed her unequivocal support for Jolly in light of the threats and intimidation.
Hidalgo remarked, “Paris will always stand by artists, creativity, and thus, by freedom.”
Barbara Butch, a prominent DJ and LGBTQ+ icon who participated in the ceremony, revealed that she too faced a barrage of online threats. Butch has lodged a complaint alleging online abuse and harassment, which is also being investigated by law enforcement.
For additional coverage of the Paris Olympics, please visit https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games.