After hours of badly shot kitsch, much Parisian rain, and the occasional surge of Revolutionary camp complete with flamethrowers, the 2024 Olympic Opening Ceremony came to a close. Thankfully, artistic director Thomas Jolly saved the best for last, ending the festivities with Céline Dion, glorious on the Eiffel Tower, singing her take on Piaf's "Hymn to Love." For those who've followed the artist's recent health struggles or watched the documentary I Am Céline Dion, the moment had added meaning. Despite it all, the great diva fulfilled what she promised, returning to the world's stage after five years away from her public. It was beautiful beyond words.
Because Oscars are always on the mind around these parts, Dion's many Academy Award performances came to mind. She has appeared in six ceremonies to sing seven numbers, ranging from Best Original Song contenders to In Memoriam segments. That makes her one of the most invited singers in the awards' history, with every appearance an event. But what is her best Oscar performance? Time to vote on a new readers' poll…
"Beauty and the Beast" – 64th Academy Awards, 1992
"Because You Loved Me" – 69th Academy Awards, 1997
"I Finally Found Someone" – 69th Academy Awards, 1997
"My Heart Will Go On" – 70th Academy Awards, 1998
"The Prayer" – 71st Academy Awards, 1999
"I Knew I Loved You" – 79th Academy Awards, 2007
"Smile" – 83rd Academy Awards, 2011
Now that you've (re)watched all those musical moments, it's time to vote!
Share your love for the great Dion, tell everyone how you voted.