How will H.E.R.’s performance at the Paris Olympics closing ceremony captivate the world?

The closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics, scheduled for August 11, 2024, promises to be a grand spectacle, featuring a performance by the acclaimed artist H.E.R. The 27-year-old Grammy winner will sing the U.S. national anthem live at the Stade de France as part of the handover ceremony for the Los Angeles Summer Games in 2028. This event marks a significant moment in the Olympic tradition, symbolizing the transition from one host city to the next.

H.E.R., whose real name is Gabriella Wilson, has had a decorated career, winning an Oscar, an Emmy, and multiple Grammy awards. In 2021, she won the Grammy for Song of the Year for her protest anthem “I Can’t Breathe”. In the same year, she also took home the award for Best Original Song for “Fight for You” from the “Judas and the Black Messiah” soundtrack at the Academy Awards. Both songs were co-written by H.E.R., showcasing her talent not only as a performer but also as a songwriter.

A Decorated Career and Cultural Impact

H.E.R.’s influence extends beyond her musical achievements. She wrote the Netflix animated series “We the People”, which won her an award at the Children’s and Family Emmys. Additionally, she starred in the 2023 adaptation of “The Color Purple”, produced by Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg. Her appearance as a guest performer alongside Usher at the Super Bowl halftime show in February further cemented her status as a versatile and influential artist.

The Los Angeles Summer Games in 2028 will be the third time the city has hosted the Olympics, with previous Games held in 1984 and 1932. However, it will be the first time Los Angeles will host the Paralympics, marking a significant milestone in the city’s sporting history.

Paris Olympics Highlights and Controversies

The Paris Olympics have been a showcase of athletic excellence and cultural celebration. U.S. gymnastics star Simone Biles made a triumphant return, taking her Olympic gold tally to seven. French swimmer Léon Marchand won five medals, four of them gold, drawing comparisons to Michael Phelps. Armand “Mondo” Duplantis broke the world record for the ninth time, thrilling the 80,000 spectators at the Stade de France.

However, the Games have not been without controversy. Algerian boxer Imane Khelif was thrust into the spotlight due to misconceptions about her gender. Despite these challenges, the organizers have successfully highlighted the beauty of Paris, with beach volleyball events held next to the Eiffel Tower. However, holding events in the polluted Seine River proved more difficult.

The United States leads the medal standings, followed by China, with Australia, France, and Britain vying for the third spot. The women’s basketball gold medal game, scheduled for 3:30 p.m. CEST at Bercy Arena, will be the last event before the closing ceremony.

Closing Ceremony and Handover to Los Angeles

The closing ceremony, set to begin at 9 p.m. CEST at Stade de France, will feature traditional highlights, including the athletes’ parade and the handover of the Olympic flag to the organizers of the 2028 Los Angeles Games. A medal presentation ceremony for the women’s marathon will also take place.

The ceremony will be a visual and choreographic extravaganza, with over a hundred performers, acrobats, dancers, and circus artists. Musical performances and world-renowned singers will complete the picture. Part of the show will take place in the air, with giant sets, costumes, and spectacular lighting effects taking spectators on a journey through time, both past and future.

As part of the Olympic handover, Tom Cruise will perform a skydiving stunt, featuring in a pre-recorded segment before swinging from above the Stade de France onto the field with the Olympic flag in tow. Team USA announced that Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky and rower Nick Mead will serve as the flag bearers for the Paris Games, both having won gold medals in their respective events.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to visit Los Angeles for the 2028 Summer Games, consider exploring beyond the usual tourist spots. While the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Santa Monica Pier are iconic, the city’s vibrant neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Echo Park offer unique experiences with their eclectic mix of cafes, boutiques, and street art.

For expert travelers, delve into Los Angeles’ rich cultural tapestry by visiting lesser-known museums such as the Museum of Jurassic Technology or the Watts Towers. These sites provide a deeper understanding of the city’s diverse history and artistic expression.

In conclusion, the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics, featuring H.E.R.’s performance, promises to be a memorable event, marking the transition to the Los Angeles Summer Games in 2028. Whether you’re an occasional traveler or a seasoned explorer, Los Angeles offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered.