French DJ Barbara Butch, who performed during the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony, has filed a legal complaint after receiving a barrage of abuse online. Butch took part in a drag queen sequence during the event, which sparked controversy as viewers interpreted it as a reference to The Last Supper.
The ceremony’s artistic director, Thomas Jolly, denied this interpretation, stating that the scene was inspired by Greek mythology and intended to celebrate diversity. However, some viewers who saw similarities to The Last Supper expressed offense.
Butch’s lawyer revealed that the DJ has been threatened with death, torture, and rape, as well as subjected to numerous antisemitic, homophobic, sexist, and grossophobic insults. Butch described the messages she received as “increasingly extreme” and labeled it as “cyber-harassment.”
French authorities are now examining the complaints before deciding whether to launch a formal police investigation. Jolly reiterated that the sequence was not inspired by The Last Supper and was meant to be a celebration, not to shock or offend.
Butch, surrounded by drag artists and dancers, wore a silver headdress resembling a halo during her set. Organizers of the Paris Olympics clarified that there was never an intention to disrespect any religious group and that the goal was to celebrate community tolerance.
In response to the cyber-harassment, Butch’s lawyer stated that she is filing several complaints and intends to prosecute anyone who tries to intimidate her in the future. Butch herself posted a statement on Instagram, asserting her pride in her identity and artistic choices.
The scene also featured French drag queen Nicky Doll and former contestants from Drag Race France, adding to the diverse and inclusive nature of the performance. Despite the backlash, Butch expressed her honor to perform at the ceremony and emphasized her refusal to be silenced.
