The Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony has ignited a firestorm of controversy, leading to a legal showdown over threats and abuse directed at DJ Barbara Butch. The LGBTQ+ icon, who performed at the event, is now seeking justice after being subjected to a barrage of violent threats and hate-filled messages online.
Barbara Butch’s lawyer, Audrey Msellati, has announced that legal action is being taken in response to the “extremely violent” campaign of cyber-harassment and defamation targeting the DJ. The lawyer’s statement, shared on Butch’s Instagram account, detailed the shocking nature of the abuse, including threats of death, torture, and rape, as well as a slew of anti-Semitic, homophobic, sexist, and grossophobic insults.
The controversy centers around a segment of the opening ceremony in which Butch, a self-proclaimed “love activist,” performed wearing a silver headdress reminiscent of a halo. The performance, which featured drag artists and dancers, has been accused of mocking Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic painting “The Last Supper,” despite the artistic director, Thomas Jolly, insisting that there was no intention to disrespect religious symbols.
Critics, including French Catholic bishops, have expressed outrage, claiming that the depiction was an affront to Christian beliefs. The artistic vision behind the segment, according to Jolly, was meant to celebrate diversity and French gastronomy, not to mock or shock. He has emphasized that his goal was to deliver a message of love and inclusion, not division.
Despite Jolly’s assurances, the backlash has been intense. The Paris Olympics organizers have defended their intentions, asserting that there was no disrespect intended towards any religious group. The statement from the organizing committee highlights a commitment to celebrating community tolerance, rather than offending or dividing.
Barbara Butch has taken to social media to respond to the criticism and threats. In a defiant Instagram post, she declared her pride in her identity and artistic choices, asserting, “Whatever some may say, I exist. I’ve never been ashamed of who I am, and I take responsibility for everything — including my artistic choices. All my life, I’ve refused to be a victim: I won’t shut up.”
Msellati’s legal team plans to pursue action against both French nationals and foreigners involved in the harassment campaign. The statement promised to prosecute anyone attempting to intimidate Butch in the future, underscoring the severity of the threats and the resolve to protect Butch’s rights.
The ongoing legal battle raises questions about the intersection of artistic freedom and religious sensitivity, as well as the broader implications of public reaction to high-profile events. As Butch’s legal fight continues, the controversy over the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced when art, identity, and faith collide on the global stage.
In the face of mounting adversity, Butch remains resolute, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to perform and pride in her role in the ceremony. Her response reflects a broader struggle within the entertainment industry to balance creative expression with respect for diverse perspectives.
