Paris Olympics 2024: C Spire drops all advertising after opening ceremony backlash

C Spire, one of the largest telecommunications companies in the US, on Saturday decided to pull all advertisements from the Paris Olympics 2024.

This development came after the opening ceremony of Paris Olympics on July 26 ignited widespread criticism and backlash. It showcased drag queens and transgender individuals in a parody of Leonardo da Vinci's ‘The Last Supper.’

The telecom giant took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express its disapproval. The post reads, "We were shocked by the mockery of the Last Supper during the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics. C Spire will be pulling our advertising from the Olympics."

Mississippi Governor supports C Spire’s decision

Governor of Mississippi, Tate Reeves, also stood in full support of C Spire’s decision as he remarked, “I am proud to see the private sector in Mississippi step up and put their foot down. God will not be mocked. C Spire drew a common-sense, appropriate line."

The act depicting ‘The Last Supper’ has been termed as an 'anti-Christian' display. C Spire joined the group of religious leaders and politicians condemning the portrayal of religious and historical figures.

C Spire CEO Suzy Hays in a statement said, “C Spire is supportive of our athletes who have worked so hard to be a part of the Olympics. However, we will not be a part of the offensive and unacceptable mockery of the Last Supper, which is why we’re pulling our advertising from the Olympics,” reported 16 WAPT.

(Mint could not independently confirm the development)

Netizens' reaction

Netizens were strong to react to this post as many hailed this decision while others criticised it for bowing to the radical right.

A user on X wrote," My company uses your services. We’ll be changing providers. We can’t do business with a spineless company that bows to the radical right." A second user stated, “ I will be contacting you very soon about changing my wireless service!”

Another user commented, “ I just followed them since they stood up! Definitely worth looking into this company, now! The best advertisement ever!” A fourth user tweeted, “The ever tolerant and inclusive left. Quick to call out any disrespect.......unless it's toward Christians and conservatives." A fifth user said, “ Pulling sponsorship or ads you were never going to run and didn't pay for anyway - bold move.”