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Olympics: Céline Dion's presence in Paris 'not a coincidence,' says French minister

PARIS — Céline Dion's presence in Paris ahead of the Olympic Games is "not a coincidence," the French government says.
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Singer Celine Dion performs on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2019, at the Videotron Centre in Quebec City. Dion's presence in Paris ahead of the Olympic Games is "not a coincidence," according to the French government. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot

PARIS — Céline Dion's presence in Paris ahead of the Olympic Games is "not a coincidence," the French government says.

The country's sports minister told a French television network today there are a "multitude of possible roles" the singer could play in an opening ceremony.

But Amélie Oudéa-Castéra wouldn't confirm whether the Canadian superstar will sing at the opening of the Games on Friday, saying the element of surprise is crucial.

Images circulated Tuesday on social media showed Dion greeting fans in the French capital.

Media outlet TMZ reported Tuesday that the singer will perform at the opening ceremony.

Dion hasn't performed publicly since revealing her diagnosis of stiff person syndrome in December 2022.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 24, 2024.

The Canadian Press