Paris Passes Olympic Torch to Los Angeles in Star-Studded Display

As the curtains fall on the 2024 Paris Olympics, all eyes are now set on Los Angeles for the 2028 Games. In a fitting finale to the Paris event, Hollywood icon Tom Cruise, renowned for his daring stunts, performed a skydiving spectacle that symbolically passed the Olympic torch to Los Angeles, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable Games.

Cruise’s breathtaking stunt began high above the Stade de France, where he swung down to the stadium floor to greet athletes. His dramatic entrance was accompanied by the powerful guitar riffs of H.E.R., following her rendition of the American national anthem. Cruise, along with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Olympic champion Simone Biles, received the Olympic flag, which he later secured to a motorcycle and rode off, blending reality with cinematic flair as his journey transitioned to a pre-recorded video heading to Hollywood.

In the video, Cruise is seen weaving through the streets of Paris on a motorcycle, with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in the backdrop, before boarding a plane. “I’m on my way,” he declared, donning skydiving gear as the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “By the Way” played. His descent culminated at the legendary Hollywood sign, where the “O” letters were transformed into Olympic rings.

This grand handover didn’t stop there. The Olympic flag was passed to cyclist Kate Courtney, who cycled through Los Angeles with support from Olympians Michael Johnson and Jagger Eaton, culminating in a vibrant concert on Venice Beach. This musical extravaganza featured performances from global stars such as Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, showcasing LA’s deep connection with celebrity culture and entertainment.

Cruise’s history with the Olympics runs deep; in 2004, he carried the Olympic torch through Dodger Stadium during the LA leg of the relay. His presence in Paris for various Olympic events, including swimming and women’s gymnastics, highlighted his enduring support for the Games.

As Team USA flag bearers swimmer Katie Ledecky and rower Nick Mead closed the ceremony, both gold medalists expressed their honor and excitement. “To share this privilege with Katie makes it all the more special,” Mead said, reflecting on his memorable experience in Paris. Ledecky echoed his sentiments, expressing pride in her team’s achievements and enthusiasm for the upcoming celebration in Los Angeles.

The American approach to hosting the Olympics is expected to blend sporting excellence with star-studded glamour, leveraging the power of celebrity and big names to capture the global spotlight. This strategic focus on entertainment aims to redefine the Olympic experience, drawing audiences worldwide and showcasing Los Angeles as a premier destination for international sports and cultural events.