Céline Dion Sparks Rumors of Olympic Performance with Paris Sighting
Canadian songstress Céline Dion was spotted leaving a hotel in the French capital on Tuesday, fueling speculation that she might return to the stage for the Paris 2024 Olympics. This potential performance would be her first since she ceased touring following her diagnosis of stiff person syndrome (SPS) in December 2022, a progressive condition characterized by muscle rigidity and painful spasms.
Rumors have been rife that Dion could perform for millions of viewers tuning into the Olympic Games next week.
Despite the growing buzz, officials have remained tight-lipped about the details. In an interview with Le Parisien, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his enthusiasm, saying he would be “immensely happy” if Dion were part of the ceremony, though he declined to disclose any specifics about the planned surprises for the show, which is set to take place on the River Seine.
The speculation about Dion’s return to the stage follows the release of her documentary, I Am Celine. In a conversation with TVA’s Jean-Philippe Dion, she revealed that a spasm in her throat during her Taking Chances tour in 2008 marked the beginning of “17 years of panic” as she struggled to understand and manage her symptoms. This condition affected her ability to reliably hit her notes, leading her to try various treatments, from steam inhalation and asthma medications to powerful drugs. She adapted her singing techniques but eventually decided to confront her illness head-on.
Despite her health challenges, Dion has remained determined to perform again. She told Vogue France about her rigorous five-day regimen of athletic, physical, and vocal therapy, which she has undertaken to prepare for her return to the stage.
According to Le Parisien, Dion is expected to perform Edith Piaf’s “L’Hymne à l’amour,” though no official confirmation has been made regarding her participation in the opening ceremony.
While fans eagerly await confirmation, the prospect of seeing Dion perform at the Olympics has them excited. Her potential comeback could indeed signal a new day for the beloved singer, who has vowed to return to the stage despite the challenges posed by her condition.