Pharrell Williams was a surprise addition to the Olympic torch-bearing relay in Paris today (July 26), joining Snoop Dogg and others as the flame traveled from Marseille to the French capital. Celebrities including Salma Hayek, MC Solaar, singer Patrick Bruel, and drag queen Minima Geste were among the earlier torch-carriers, with Williams concluding the ritual to signal the beginning of the games.
The official opening ceremony takes place later today, reportedly featuring a duet between Lady Gaga and Celine Dion, the latter returning to the stage for the first time since being diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome in 2022. Opera singer Marina Viotti is also rumored to be performing with the French metal band Gojira.
SAINT-DENIS, FRANCE – JULY 26: US rapper, artist and designer Pharell Williams during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games Torch Relay, on the day of the opening ceremony, on July 26, 2024 in Saint-Denis, outside Paris.Stephane De Sakutin – Pool/Getty Images
French actress Laetitia Casta (R) walks next to US rapper, artist and designer Pharell Williams holding the Olympic Torch as part of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games Torch Relay, on the day of the opening ceremony, in Saint-Denis, outside Paris, on July 26, 2024.STEPHANE DE SAKUTIN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images