Celine Dion’s performance from the Eiffel Tower at the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony on Friday was proof that hearts will continue to beat.
Dion, who had not performed in public since 2020 due to her struggle with stiff person syndrome, shocked the world with her triumphant return to music.
What song did Celine Dion sing during the Paris Olympics?
The “Power of Love” singer performed French singer Edith Piaf’s “Hymne à l’amour” from the base of the Eiffel Tower in what became an instantly iconic moment.
The Grammy-winning singer recently detailed her battle with stiff person syndrome in the Amazon Prime Video documentary, “I Am: Celine Dion,” where it was revealed that the 56-year-old French-Canadian nearly died from the condition.
In the documentary, Dion explains that she has improved significantly since the early days of her diagnosis, and that returning to singing and performing is her main motivation to overcome her illness.
“It’s not hard to do a show now, it’s hard to cancel a show,” Dion said. “I work hard every day, but I have to admit it’s been a struggle. I miss it so much. The people. I miss them. If I can’t run, I’ll walk. If I can’t walk, I’ll crawl. I won’t stop.”
Other performers at Friday’s opening ceremony included Lady Gaga and French-Malian pop star Aya Nakamura.
Dion’s performance marked the end of the opening ceremony and the start of the Olympics, and also appears to be the start of a musical comeback.
USC Dornsife professor Lydia Moudileno explains the significance of some of the French cultural elements included in the Paris 2024 opening ceremony.
NBC Chicago
