Mariah Carey’s highly anticipated performance at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics has left many viewers unimpressed, with social media erupting in criticism over her apparent lack of enthusiasm and concerns about lip-syncing. The event, held at the iconic San Siro Stadium in Milan, Italy, marked the official start of the Winter Games, but Carey’s set has overshadowed the festivities.
A Disappointing Debut
Taking the stage after two grand production numbers, the 56-year-old singer appeared in a striking silver-and-white gown, bathed in a solitary spotlight. Carey began her set with a rendition of Domenico Modugno’s classic “Nel blu, dipinto di blu,” commonly known as “Volare,” before transitioning into her own track “Nothing Is Impossible” from her 2025 album, *Here For It All*. Despite her star status, the performance was met with widespread scrutiny.
Viewers quickly took to social media platforms to voice their discontent. Many questioned the rationale behind Carey’s selection as a performer for the Italian-hosted event. “Is Mariah Carey part Italian? I’m not sure why an American singer is there,” mused one user, highlighting the tradition of featuring local talent at such ceremonies. Others echoed this sentiment, drawing comparisons to past Olympic ceremonies that showcased British icons like David Bowie and Annie Lennox.
Lip-Syncing Controversy
Adding to the criticism, several attendees speculated whether Carey was lip-syncing during her performance. Observers noted that she seemed to struggle with her iconic whistle notes, prompting comments like, “When was the last time Mariah Carey didn’t lip sync a performance?” This sentiment resonated with many, who felt that the authenticity typically expected from live performances was lacking.
One critic on X remarked, “Mariah Carey so obviously lip-syncing. Wasn’t trying to hide it a single bit. Ruined what has been a decent opening ceremony thus far.” While some praised her presence, the overwhelming response leaned towards disappointment, as fans expressed that other artists could have delivered a more authentic showcase.
A Star-Studded Line-Up
Despite the backlash directed at Carey, the opening ceremony featured several other notable performers. Italian singer Laura Pausini sang the national anthem, while opera legend Andrea Bocelli—who previously graced the stage at the closing ceremony of the 2006 Winter Games—also captivated the audience. Together, they contributed to a diverse musical experience intended to celebrate the spirit of the Olympics.
The overarching theme of the ceremony, “Harmony,” aimed to represent the two host cities, Milan and the picturesque Cortina d’Ampezzo. With this year’s Winter Olympics set to run until the closing ceremony on February 22, featuring 116 medal events over 19 days, the focus was meant to be on unity and celebration.
Why it Matters
The criticism surrounding Mariah Carey’s performance at the Olympics underscores the importance of cultural representation and authenticity in global events. As audiences increasingly demand genuine connections with performers, the backlash against Carey highlights a shifting expectation for artists to engage meaningfully with their audiences. With the eyes of the world on the Winter Games, the selection of performers not only influences the event’s atmosphere but also reflects broader societal values regarding representation and artistic integrity.
