Watch: Tom Cruise closes Paris Olympics with jaw-dropping stunts
What's the story
The closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024 was elevated to new heights with Hollywood star Tom Cruise performing a series of breathtaking stunts. The actor, known for performing his own stunts in films, jumped off the roof of Stade de France and landed on stage, leaving spectators spellbound. This daring act marked the beginning of the closing ceremony on Sunday, August 11 (local time).
Torch handover
Cruise's symbolic act of passing the Olympic torch
After his thrilling descent, Cruise was welcomed on stage by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. She had just received the Olympic baton from Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo. Cruise then took the baton and rode his motorcycle out of the stadium, symbolizing the transfer of the Olympic torch from Paris to LA. This act set the stage for Los Angeles as the host city for the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Pre-recorded stunt
Cruise's pre-recorded stunt and the Hollywood sign
Cruise continued his ride through the streets of Paris, accompanied by the song By The Way by Red Hot Chilli Peppers, before driving into a plane. This was followed by a pre-recorded video of the actor parachuting from a plane and landing near the Hollywood sign. To signify LA as the next Olympic host city, he attached the five rings of the Olympics to this iconic sign.
Olympic appearances
Cruise's presence at the Paris Olympics 2024
Cruise was a frequent attendee at the Paris Olympics 2024. He was first seen at the opening ceremony on July 27 and made several appearances at various events alongside celebrities like Ariana Grande, Steven Spielberg, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Matthew Broderick. On July 26, a day before the opening ceremony, he was awarded the Knight of the Legion of Honour by France's Culture Minister Rachida Dati.
Iconic venues
Paris Olympics 2024: A fusion of sports and iconic landmarks
The Paris Olympics 2024 set a new precedent by hosting most games at iconic landmarks such as Place de la Concorde, the Eiffel Tower, the Chateau de Versailles, and Grand Palais. The grand opening ceremony featured top celebrities including Celine Dion and Lady Gaga. LA Mayor Bass expressed her excitement for the upcoming Summer Games in LA, stating that they "will really show the diversity and the international character of our city."
Closing ceremony
Star-studded closing ceremony and record-breaking wins
The closing ceremony also showcased performances by Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Grammy, Oscar, and Emmy winner H.E.R. performed the US national anthem. French bands Phoenix and Air, as well as Belgian pop star Angele, also performed at the event orchestrated by Paris Olympics artistic director Thomas Jolly and executive director Thierry Reboul. The Paris Olympics concluded with the host country breaking a 100-year record with 64 medals, including 16 golds.