In a dramatic closing ceremony for the Paris 2024 Olympics, Tom Cruise captivated audiences with a spectacular stunt that bridged the gap between the Paris Games and the upcoming Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. The event, held at the Stade de France on August 11, 2024, saw Cruise leaping from the stadium’s roof and landing on stage amid roaring cheers.
The ceremony began with a performance of the U.S. national anthem by H.E.R., setting the stage for Cruise’s high-flying entrance. After his daring descent, Cruise was greeted by L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, who received the Olympic flag from Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo. The actor then made a dramatic exit on a motorcycle, flag in hand, and rode through the streets of Paris to the accompaniment of the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “By the Way.”
Cruise’s journey continued with a pre-recorded segment in which he flew to Los Angeles, skydiving from an aircraft and landing near the iconic Hollywood sign. Upon touching down, Cruise affixed the five Olympic rings to the landmark, marking the official handover of the Games.
The Paris closing ceremony was a blend of star power and artistry, featuring performances by Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, along with French bands Phoenix and Air, and Belgian pop star Angèle. The event was orchestrated by Paris Olympics artistic director Thomas Jolly and executive director Thierry Reboul.
In her remarks, Mayor Karen Bass emphasized that the L.A. Games will showcase the city’s diversity and international spirit, promising a continuation of the celebratory atmosphere seen in Paris. The Paris Olympics have been noted for their use of iconic landmarks for events, including the Seine River and the Eiffel Tower, and set a high bar for future host cities.
Tom Cruise, who had been a prominent figure throughout the Paris Games, was also honored with the Knight of the Legion of Honor award by France’s culture minister Rachida Dati just days before the ceremony.
