Mariah Carey’s much-anticipated performance at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan has stirred controversy, with many viewers expressing disappointment over her apparent lack of enthusiasm and concerns about her vocal authenticity. The global pop icon took to the stage amidst a dazzling display of pageantry, but her performance failed to resonate with the audience, igniting a flurry of criticism on social media.
A Frosty Reception
As the historic San Siro Stadium filled with fans on Friday, February 6, 2026, the atmosphere was charged with excitement. Following impressive production numbers, Carey, adorned in a shimmering silver-and-white gown, emerged to deliver a rendition of the classic Italian tune “Nel blu, dipinto di blu,” widely known as “Volare.” However, her transition into her original song “Nothing Is Impossible” from her 2025 album, *Here For It All*, raised eyebrows. Viewers quickly noted that she seemed to rely heavily on playback, leading to speculation about whether she was genuinely singing live.
On platforms like X, many users questioned why Carey, an artist hailing from Huntington, New York, was chosen to represent Italy at such a prominent event. One user remarked, “Usually the host country only features talent from their country. Great Britain had Bowie, Annie Lennox, & others… don’t recall any American singers.” This sentiment echoed throughout the commentary, as fans expressed confusion over her inclusion in the lineup.
Lip-Syncing Allegations
The debate intensified around allegations of lip-syncing, with viewers pointing out that Carey’s facial expressions remained largely unchanged during her performance. “#Olympics2026 when was the last time Mariah Carey didn’t lip sync a performance? Doing it in Italian is a new twist,” one user quipped, highlighting the perception that her performance lacked the authenticity expected from such a high-profile event. Another user lamented, “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.”
Carey was not the only star gracing the stage; Italian singer Laura Pausini performed the National Anthem, while Andrea Bocelli, a celebrated tenor, brought his own flair to the event. However, the overshadowing remarks about Carey’s performance left a cloud over the ceremony, which was themed “Harmony” to honour the two host cities, Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Cultural Context
The 2026 Winter Olympics have brought together athletes and fans from around the world, but Carey’s performance has sparked a broader conversation about representation in international events. While her global fame is undeniable, the choice to feature an American artist in a ceremony celebrating Italian culture has raised questions about the criteria for such selections. It begs the question: Should host nations focus on homegrown talent to enhance the cultural authenticity of their ceremonies?
As the Olympics unfold, the event will feature a total of 116 medal competitions over 19 days, culminating in the closing ceremony on February 22. For many, the opening ceremony is more than just a prelude; it sets the tone for the games and showcases the host country’s identity on a global stage.
Why it Matters
The backlash against Mariah Carey’s performance at the Olympics highlights a growing trend in global events where cultural representation is scrutinised. As audiences demand authenticity and connection, the choice of performers becomes a focal point of discussion. The outcry over Carey’s performance not only reflects expectations of live musical artistry but also signals a desire for host nations to showcase their cultural richness through local talent. As the world tunes in to watch the Olympic Games, the conversation around representation and authenticity will undoubtedly resonate beyond the confines of the stadium, shaping cultural perceptions long after the athletes have left the ice and snow.
