Legendary actor Jackie Chan captivated crowds in Paris on Wednesday, August 28, as he carried the Paralympic flame through the city streets, marking the countdown to the 2024 Paralympic Games. The 70-year-old martial arts icon donned a white tracksuit and his signature black eyeglasses, enthusiastically waving to fans who lined the historic avenues to witness the spectacle.
Chan was joined in the torch relay by other prominent figures including French dancer and choreographer Benjamin Millepied, actress Elsa Zylberstein, and rapper Georgio. The relay featured twelve torches navigating the city, culminating in the lighting of the final cauldron at the Paris City Hall, adding a dynamic touch to the event's festivities.
The Paralympic Games’ opening ceremony, held at the Champs-Élysées and Place de la Concorde, diverged from traditional stadium venues, echoing the innovative approach of the Paris Olympics earlier in the month. Over 4,000 athletes with physical, visual, and intellectual impairments paraded through the iconic locations, showcasing a vibrant display of athleticism and spirit.
Jackie Chan's involvement in the Paralympic torch relay adds to his storied legacy. Known for his exceptional martial arts skills and daring stunts, Chan has been a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. His films, such as the "Rush Hour" series, have garnered him a massive following worldwide, including in France, where his iconic Eiffel Tower fight scene in "Rush Hour 3" remains memorable.
Chan's contributions to the Olympics are well-documented, with his participation in the 2008 Beijing Olympic torch relay underscoring his longstanding connection to the Olympic and Paralympic movements. His dynamic blend of comedy and action has earned him international acclaim and a Guinness World Record for "Most Stunts by a Living Actor" in 2012.
Born in 1954 in British colonial Hong Kong, Jackie Chan began his film career as a child actor and stunt double. His breakthrough came with films like “Rumble in the Bronx” and the “Rush Hour” trilogy, which solidified his status as a global star. Despite a career marked by frequent injuries, Chan's dedication to performing his own stunts has been a hallmark of his career.
Although his star has waned somewhat in Hong Kong due to political stances, Chan remains a significant cultural icon with an estimated net worth of $350 million. His extensive business ventures and ongoing influence in the film industry reflect his enduring legacy.
As the Paralympic Games commence, Jackie Chan’s participation in the torch relay serves as a fitting tribute to his remarkable career and ongoing support for the Olympic and Paralympic movements. The Games promise to deliver memorable performances and showcase the extraordinary abilities of athletes from around the world.
The Games will span from August 28 to September 8, with athletes competing in 22 sports. The first medals will be awarded on Thursday, with events in table tennis, taekwondo, and track cycling setting the stage for a fortnight of intense competition.
