Cultural References in the Olympics Opening Ceremony

The hooded parkour man in the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony was a deliberate reference to Assassin’s Creed Unity. The ceremony showcased various elements of French culture, including a performance featuring a beheaded, possibly-Marie Antoinette lady and Celine Dion singing on the Eiffel Tower. However, one of the standout moments was the appearance of a mysterious flag-bearer darting across Paris’ rooftops in a familiar white hood. Initially, it may have seemed like a mere coincidence, but it was later confirmed that the Olympics organizers had indeed incorporated a nod to the popular video game franchise.

Ubisoft, the publisher of Assassin’s Creed Unity, took to Twitter to acknowledge the connection between the Olympics opening ceremony and their game. In a tweet, Ubisoft hinted at the presence of Arno, the main character from the game, watching over Paris from above. This public acknowledgment solidified the intentional homage paid to the iconic game series during the event.

Assassin’s Creed Unity, despite being nearly a decade old, remains a significant entry in the franchise. The game, set in Paris, faced initial criticism due to major bugs and a lukewarm reception. However, over the years, post-launch updates have significantly improved the gameplay experience, garnering a newfound appreciation for Unity. The game’s lifelike recreation of Paris was so impressive that it played a role in the restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral after it was damaged by fire.

The inclusion of cultural references, such as the tribute to Assassin’s Creed Unity in the Olympics opening ceremony, highlights the enduring influence of popular media on global events. By integrating elements from beloved video games into such prestigious occasions, organizers can appeal to a broader audience and create memorable moments that bridge the worlds of entertainment and tradition. As we continue to see these connections between pop culture and mainstream events, it underscores the impact of creative mediums on shaping our collective experiences.