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Celine Dion made her highly anticipated return to the stage at the Summer Olympic Games in Paris, delivering a breathtaking performance that left the audience in awe. The superstar singer closed the ceremony on Friday with a grand finale immediately following the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, performing from the first stage of the Eiffel Tower. Dion sang Edith Piaf's timeless classic, "L'Hymne à l'amour," showcasing her exceptional vocal prowess.
Dressed in a stunning beaded white gown with tassels, Dion captivated the audience with her soaring, clean notes. Her performance marked a significant moment, as it was her first concert since revealing her battle with stiff person syndrome, a rare and progressive neurological disorder that affects the nervous system. Despite the challenges posed by her condition, Dion was in excellent form, demonstrating her resilience and determination.
Kelly Clarkson, who served as a commentator for NBC, was left speechless by Dion's performance. Regaining her composure, Clarkson praised Dion as "a vocal athlete," highlighting the superstar's remarkable talent and strength.
Dion, 56, had announced in December 2022 that she would be taking a break from professional commitments to focus on her health following her diagnosis. The condition, which can cause involuntary spasms and muscle rigidity, had made it difficult for her to sing as she used to.
Her resilience was evident earlier this year at the Grammy Awards, where she presented the final trophy of the evening. In her documentary, Dion expressed her unwavering determination: "If I can't run, I'll walk. If I can't walk, I'll crawl. And I won't stop. I won't stop."
Celine Dion's triumphant return to the stage at the Paris Olympics serves as a powerful testament to her indomitable spirit and enduring talent.