Celine Dion makes first public appearance since Paris Olympics and receives standing ovation as she expresses 'hope'

 

A stunning return was made by Céline Dion to the spotlight on Tuesday, marking her first public appearance since her captivating performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony.

The My Heart Will Go On singer, 56,  surprised guests at City of Hope’s Spirit of Life Gala in Los Angeles, where she was greeted with a standing ovation. 

She then took the stage to present Jay Marciano, chairman and CEO of AEG Presents, with the esteemed Spirit of Life Award.

'I'm so honored to be here tonight, to be part of this wonderful and important evening,' Céline told the crowd, looking radiant in a sleek black gown with a sheer décolletage. 

She added with a smile, 'This is the first time I've been on a stage since I was up on that tower,' playfully referencing her Eiffel Tower performance during the Olympics.

The star-studded evening also featured a lively performance by Elton John, who brought his signature flair, rocking a bright yellow suit and purple spectacles to match his eccentric style. 

Céline, who has been battling stiff-person syndrome for the past two years, also took a heartfelt moment to express her gratitude to the charity for giving patients hope,' which she described as "the most precious ingredient of all."

Her appearance on stage comes three months after her triumphant return at the 2024 Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony in Paris. 

In July, the legendary singer brought the event to a close with a powerful rendition of Édith Piaf's classic (Hymn to Love).

Her breathtaking performance, which took place live from the base of the Eiffel Tower, left audiences in awe and was a standout moment of the hours-long ceremony. 

Twenty-eight years after her Olympic debut at the 1996 Atlanta Games, Céline proved she’s still at the top of her game with an emotional performance in Paris. 

Following the unforgettable moment, Céline took to X with a heartfelt message, reflecting on the significance of the performance and thanking her fans for their unwavering support.

She wrote: 'I’m honored to have performed tonight, for the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony, and so full of joy to be back in one of my very favorite cities! 

'Most of all, I’m so happy to be celebrating these amazing athletes, with all their stories of sacrifice and determination, pain and perseverance.