First Time Since the Break from a Rare Illness, Celine Dion Reported to Make a Triumphant Return at the Opening Ceremony of Paris Olympics
Los Angeles: Legendary singer-songwriter Celine Dion, who has been battling stiff-person syndrome, a rare neurological disease, is set to make a triumphant return to the stage during the Olympic Games next month in Paris. This performance holds a special significance as it marks her first major public appearance since her diagnosis, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for her fans and the global entertainment community.
According to Variety, the singer is expected to perform at the unique and highly anticipated opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics on Friday.
This will be the pop icon’s first concert since she announced her decision to stop touring and take a break from the spotlight in December 2022 following her diagnosis of stiff person syndrome. The anticipation for her performance at the iconic event is palpable.
According to Variety, the singer reportedly arrived in Paris at the Royal Monceau Hotel, which is close to the Champs-Elysees and where Lady Gaga, another potential headliner for the opening ceremony, is staying. While specifics on Dion’s performance are being guarded, her proximity to Lady Gaga’s location has sparked speculation about a possible collaboration or joint performance at the opening ceremony.
In an April interview with Vogue France, the Canadian singer hinted at a potential return when she said, “I’ve chosen to work with all my body and soul, from head to toe, with a medical team. I want to be the best I can be. My goal is to see the Eiffel Tower again.”
The ace-singer added that she was focusing on becoming stronger every day. She stated to Vogue France, “For four years I’ve been saying to myself that I’m not going back, that I’m ready, that I’m not ready… As things stand, I can’t stand here and say to you: ‘Yes, in four months’,” she said. “I don’t know… My body will tell me.”
It appears that she might be performing in front of the well-known Parisian landmark. A naval procession along the Seine will mark the beginning of the ceremony, which will finish close to the Trocadero, which faces the Eiffel Tower.
For the first time, the event will be held outside of a stadium. It will feature 3,500 actors, dancers, and musicians and highlight famous sites in Paris.
Dion sang the popular signature song “My Heart Will Go On” in the 1997 James Cameron award-winning film Titanic. The song was the best-selling single in 1998 and one of the best singles ever.
Photo Credit: IANS
