Artistic director Thomas Jolly and his team teased a spectacular finale at the Stade de France, and they did not disappoint. The athletes’ parade was a gorgeous celebration of unity, bringing competitors and the public together in a heartwarming display. The closing ceremony not only marked the end of Paris 2024 but also served as a symbolic handoff to the next Olympic Games in L.A.
French bands Phoenix and Air electrified the crowd, while French singer Yseult delivered a powerful rendition of “My Way.” In Los Angeles, Billie Eilish, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Snoop Dogg joined in the festivities at Venice Beach, celebrating the passing of the torch.
But the name on everyone’s lips tonight? Tom Cruise. The Hollywood icon, who attended the opening ceremony on July 26th, was also spotted at several events, including the women’s football final, making his presence felt throughout the Games.
The Hollywood movie star, known for his mastery in executing mind-blowing, death-defying stunts, was spotted in April riding a motorcycle through the streets of Paris. Before that, he was seen preparing for a stunt on the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles. As rumors swirled last week about Cruise’s possible involvement in the Olympic closing ceremony, it was soon confirmed that he would indeed take part in a daring stunt sequence.
After two hours of celebrations at the Stade de France, the first notes of the Mission: Impossible theme echoed through the stadium. Suddenly, Tom Cruise appeared on the roof. After landing on the ground, he sprinted across the field, saluting the athletes as he passed. Without missing a beat, he leapt onto a motorcycle hidden behind the stage, with the Olympic flag billowing behind him.
Cruise then sped through the city, boarded a plane, and skydived to the iconic Hollywood sign, where he dramatically draped the Olympic flag over it. The Olympic rings are now intertwined with the legendary Hollywood sign, symbolizing the seamless handoff from Paris to L.A.
The actor wasted no time taking to Twitter, where he shared a photo of himself standing triumphantly on the roof of the stadium. His caption was simple yet symbolic: “Thank you, Paris! Now off to LA.
Thank you, Paris! Now off to LA. pic.twitter.com/MxlAb0hZbT
— Tom Cruise (@TomCruise) August 11, 2024
It’s hard to believe that two weeks have passed since the Paris Summer Olympics kicked off with a star-studded opening ceremony, featuring breathtaking performances by Céline Dion, Lady Gaga, and other unforgettable moments. From the start, emotions ran high, setting the tone for what would be a spectacular event.
Artistic director Thomas Jolly and his team had promised a grand closing ceremony at the Stade de France, and they delivered in spades. The athlete’s parade was a beautiful celebration of unity, bringing the competitors and the public together in a shared moment of joy. The closing ceremony also served as a symbolic bridge between Paris and the next Olympic Games in L.A.
The night was filled with stellar performances from French bands Phoenix and Air, while French singer Yseult moved the crowd with a powerful rendition of “My Way.” Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Billie Eilish, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Snoop Dogg led the celebrations at Venice Beach as the Olympic torch was passed.
But the true highlight of the night was Tom Cruise. The Hollywood star, who had attended the opening ceremony on July 26th and several key events, including the women’s football final, was the name on everyone’s lips. His presence added an extra layer of excitement to an already unforgettable night.