The Vatican has expressed disappointment over a skit during the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony, which appeared to parody Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper'.

The scene featured drag queens, a transgender model, and a nearly-naked singer in roles reminiscent of Jesus Christ and his apostles.

The Vatican issued a statement on Saturday night, condemning the performance as offensive to Christians and believers of other faiths.

"The Holy See was saddened by certain scenes at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games and cannot but join the voices raised in recent days to deplore the offence done to many Christians and believers of other religions," the Vatican stated. It emphasised that while freedom of expression is important, it must be balanced with respect for others.

The Vatican did not explain why it took over a week to respond. However, the statement came shortly after Pope Francis spoke with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, during which the opening ceremony was reportedly discussed.

Paris 2024 organisers had already issued an apology two days after the event, with the artistic director, Thomas Jolly, clarifying that the skit was not inspired by Da Vinci’s painting. Instead, he claimed it was a tribute to a pagan feast associated with the historical Olympics, with the near-naked singer representing Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and festivity.

Jolly has faced death threats and online harassment following the performance, according to the Paris Prosecutor's office. French DJ and producer Barbara Butch, who participated in the scene, has also filed a complaint after receiving threats and being subjected to a wave of antisemitic, homophobic, sexist, and grossophobic abuse.