The upcoming Opening Ceremony for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 promises to be a truly once-in-a-lifetime spectacle, taking place along a 6km stretch of the iconic Seine River and at Trocadero. As the first opening of the Olympic Games not held in stadium, this truly historical event in the heart of the Olympic city will bring the vision and creativity of Paris 2024 to life. And only the Olympic Channel has been granted exclusive access to capture the monumental efforts behind-the-scenes of this groundbreaking event.
Even with the confidentiality surrounding the preparations, Paris 2024 leadership, including Tony Estanguet, President, Thierry Reboul, Director of Ceremonies, Thomas Jolly, Creative Director, and their dedicated teams, as well as Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), have graciously opened their doors to the Olympic Channel’s cameras. This unprecedented access allows for an in-depth look at the sensitive discussions and intricate planning involved.
Leading the ambitious docuseries is the talented French director Manuel Herrero, who has previously collaborated with the Olympic Channel. Known for his highly creative approach and unique filming style, Herrero has built a level of trust with participants, enabling him to capture intimate portraits and behind-the-scenes moments while always maintaining a level of discretion required for such a massive undertaking. His vision brings a fresh and compelling narrative to this extraordinary event.
This exclusive behind-the-scenes look provides a fascinating viewpoint, showcasing the magnitude and complexity of the preparations required for such an extraordinary event. The Olympic Channel’s in-depth coverage will highlight the dedication and hard work of everyone involved, giving viewers a newfound appreciation for the efforts that make such a grand spectacle possible.
Olympic Media Right-Holders (MRHs) have recognised the significance of this project offering unwavering support from its inception. Broadcast partners such as NBCUniversal’s Peacock, Warner Bros. Discovery, France Televisions, TV Globo, NHK, CBC, Radio-Canada and CMG have wholeheartedly embraced the vision, committing to its success by broadcasting it across their territories. This collective effort highlights the collaborative spirit that defines the Olympic Games.
The highly anticipated docuseries is set to premiere worldwide from 21 July.
Here’s where you can watch it:
- Brazil (Globo)
- Canada (CBC and Radio-Canada
- China (CMG)
- Europe except France – 49 territories (Warner Bros. Discovery)
- France (France Televisions)
- Japan (NHK)
- United States of America (NBCUniversal’s Peacock)
For all other regions, the documentary will be available on Olympics.com.
Quotes
Yiannis Exarchos, OBS Chief Executive Director and OCS Executive Director
“What Manuel and the Olympic Channel team have accomplished with “La Grande Seine” transcends the typical documentary format – it’s a vibrant celebration of innovation, passion, and the unwavering spirit that defines the essence of the Olympic Games Paris 2024. From its inception to fruition, Paris 2024 has remained steadfast in its visionary commitment, deserving our utmost admiration.”
Manuel Herrero, Director
“This documentary chronicles an extraordinary two-year adventure, following the dedicated team behind the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony. Amidst mounting pressure and sky-high expectations, our cameras captured every pivotal moment of their meticulous crafting and relentless pursuit of a groundbreaking vision. From inception to execution, their ambitious endeavour pushes the boundaries of creativity and scale. We delved deep into their triumphs and challenges, revealing a profound testament to human ingenuity and unwavering perseverance.”
Tony Estanguet, President of the Paris 2024 Organising Committee
“This documentary embodies the boundless possibilities when ambition meets perseverance. For the Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, we dared to envision something audacious and totally unique. As we approach the grand unveiling in just a few days, we can’t wait to see this vision come to life in front of billions of TV viewers, who will be united around a spectacle like nothing we’ve seen before**.”
Credit: International Olympic Committee