The 2026 Winter Olympics kicked off spectacularly on February 6 at Milan’s iconic San Siro stadium, with American pop superstar Mariah Carey taking center stage during the opening ceremony.
Amid a kaleidoscope of lights and colors, Carey delivered a medley that blended Italian heritage with her signature vocal prowess, captivating a global audience and sparking a wave of reactions online.
Dressed in a stunning, feather-trimmed silver gown designed by Fausto Puglisi, Carey opened her set with a rousing rendition of Domenico Modugno’s classic Italian song “Nel Blu, Dipinto di Blu,” better known as “Volare.”
Singing entirely in Italian, she surprised fans and paid homage to the host country’s musical legacy. She then transitioned seamlessly into one of her own hits, “Nothing Is Impossible,” hitting notes so high that social media buzzed with jokes about it, “scaring a dog.”
The performance was part of a star-studded lineup that included Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, emphasizing themes of unity, art, and athleticism.
The ceremony, which also featured events in Cortina, Livigno, and Predazzo, marked the official start of the Milano Cortina 2026 Games, drawing millions of viewers worldwide.
While many praised Carey’s vocal range and the poetic choice of “Volare” – a song about flying that resonated with the Olympic spirit – not all feedback was positive.
Some online critics accused her of lip-syncing, prompting organizers to address the speculation without outright denial.
Others slammed the performance as out of place, with comments like “It’s Not Christmas Yet” referencing her iconic holiday hits, leading to a divided internet response.
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Despite the mixed reviews, Carey’s appearance underscored her enduring status as a global icon. Known for her five-octave range and chart-topping anthems, the 56-year-old singer brought a touch of glamour to the winter sports extravaganza.
Fans on X highlighted her whistle notes in “Nothing Is Impossible,” calling it an “incomparable” moment.
As the Games proceed through February 22, Carey’s performance will likely remain a highlight, blending music, culture, and sport in a way that only the Olympics can achieve. Whether you loved it or not, it was undeniably a moment that got people talking.
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