The Hollywood Star Who Helped Pass the Torch to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
On Sunday, August 11, 2024, Tom Cruise, known for his role in the Mission Impossible film series, played a significant role in the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics. Cruise’s stunt-filled entrance and subsequent actions symbolized the passing of the torch from Paris to Los Angeles, the host city of the 2028 Summer Olympics.
A Dramatic Entrance
The ceremony began with a performance of the US national anthem by H.E.R. As the anthem concluded, Tom Cruise made a grand entrance, rappelling down from the roof of the Stade de France, where the ceremony was taking place. The crowd erupted in cheers as Cruise descended to the floor on a rope, shaking hands with athletes along the way.
Passing the Torch
After reaching the stage, Cruise greeted Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and gymnastics legend Simone Biles, who were holding the Olympic flag. Bass and Biles represented the handover of responsibilities from the Paris Games to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Cruise then took the flag from them and pinned it to his motorcycle.
A Motorcycle Ride Through Paris
With the flag secured, Cruise rode his motorcycle through the streets of Paris, symbolizing the journey of the Olympics from one city to another. The camera followed Cruise as he navigated the city’s landmarks, culminating in a shot of the Eiffel Tower adorned with the Olympic rings.
A Symbolic Arrival in Los Angeles
As Cruise continued his ride, the scene transitioned to Los Angeles, where he was greeted by the iconic Hollywood sign, this time redesigned to incorporate the five Olympic rings. Michael Johnson, a legendary American sprinter, took over the flag and ran through the city, passing by various landmarks before arriving at the beach.
A Musical Celebration
On the beach, a mini-concert featuring the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre took place. The musicians performed their hit songs, including “Can’t Stop,” “Birds of a Feather,” and “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The closing ceremony concluded with Team USA leading the medal count, having won 126 medals. The event marked the end of the 2024 Paris Olympics and the beginning of the anticipation for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where Tom Cruise’s dramatic entrance helped set the stage.
The Significance of Tom Cruise’s Involvement
Tom Cruise’s participation in the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics brought global attention to the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. His star power and the iconic nature of his entrance left a lasting impression on viewers worldwide.
Cruise’s involvement also highlighted the growing role of Hollywood in major sporting events. His presence added an element of glamour and excitement to the ceremony, further enhancing the appeal of the Olympics to a broader audience.
Moreover, Cruise’s motorcycle ride through Paris and his subsequent arrival in Los Angeles symbolized the seamless transition from one host city to the next. The journey highlighted the global nature of the Olympics and the shared spirit of sportsmanship that unites cities and nations.
As the anticipation builds for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Tom Cruise’s involvement in the 2024 Paris Olympics closing ceremony has set a high standard for future handover ceremonies. His iconic stunt and subsequent actions will be remembered as a pivotal moment in Olympic history, marking the passing of the torch from one iconic city to another.
