Celine Dion made a powerful comeback at the 2024 Paris Olympics on Friday, performing for the first time in years and amid her battle with stiff neck syndrome.
The six-time Grammy Award winner took the stage in triumph to sing. Sing Edith Piaf’s “L’amour” at the top of the Eiffel Tower
She appeared emotional during her final performance at the opening ceremony.
Dion (56 years old) The high-necked, crystal-covered gown featured long sleeves and a cape with beaded tassels, and she accessorized with a deep smoky eye and pulled-back hair bun for a glamorous look.
The songstress’ performance even brought one of the show’s hosts, Kelly Clarkson, to tears.
“I can’t actually tell you,” Clarkson said. “It was just so beautiful.”
“People who don’t know her story and what she’s been through physically,” she added. “It’s just incredible what she’s been through. To have those moments. She’s a loud athlete. She’s amazing.”
She reportedly Rumored to have been paid $2 million For her mind-blowing performance, the icon did not receive a cheque.
“Contrary to some media reports, performers appearing in the Paris 2024 ceremonies will not receive an appearance fee,” an Olympics rep told Page Six.
“Their decision to perform under these circumstances reflects their desire to take part in a historic event for France and the world of sport.”
However, the event coordinators covered “technical production costs, as is customary” and “performance costs.”
The “My Heart Will Go On” songstress arrived in the City of Love on Monday and checked into the Royal Monceau Hotel, where sources say she’ll be performing.
Dion last performed at the Olympic Games Opening Ceremony in 1996 at the Games in Atlanta, Georgia, where she sang “The Power of the Dream.”
Dion hasn’t been on stage since 2021, when she canceled a show in Las Vegas due to persistent muscle spasms.
In December 2022, the Canadian singer revealed that she had been diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome, a rare autoimmune disease that can lead to painful and worsening muscle stiffness. From Johns Hopkins Medicine.
She was shown experiencing a seizure in the 2024 documentary, I Am: Celine Dion, and gave insight into her health journey.
At the time, Dion said she was determined to “overcome” her illness and perform again.
In April, the “I’m Alive” singer hinted that he was preparing for a comeback. During an interview with Vogue FranceShe explained that she continues to train and do vocal exercises five days a week.
“I’ll either train hard like an athlete or I’ll switch off and call it a day. I’ll listen to songs at home and stand in front of the mirror and sing to myself,” she said.
“I have chosen to commit myself, head to toe, to my medical team. I want to be the best version of myself that I can be. My goal is to see the Eiffel Tower one more time!”
