The iconic Mariah Carey had the honor of performing at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
It was announced back in December that Carey was invited to make an appearance at the opening ceremony in Italy. Obviously, the Grammy Award-winning artist wasn't going to turn down this opportunity.
"Mariah Carey fully represents the emotional atmosphere that accompanies the run-up to the Games," the Olympic committee said. "Music is a universal language that attracts different stories and sensibilities, and intertwines with the opening ceremony's theme of harmony."
© Amber Searls-Imagn Images.
Carey, 56, performed "Nel blu dipinto di blu" at Stadio San Siro in Milan. After showing she can hit the high notes in Italian, she sang her 2025 song "Nothing Is Impossible."
While the public was torn on Carey's performance, countless people raved about her winter-themed attire.
Fans questioning why Mariah Carey was at the Olympics.
The main complaint on social media is that fans wanted to see someone with an Italian background take Carey's spot.
"Mariah Carey has just ruined the Winter Olympics for everyone," one person declared.
"Witnessing Mariah Carey at the 2026 Olympics Opening Ceremony…she is stiff, lip syncing and looks like she’s reading off a teleprompter," a second person wrote.
"Watching the Opening Ceremony for the Winter Olympics in Cortina and... they couldn't find an Italian singer? In Italy? They chose... Mariah Carey?" another person commented. "Oh well, good to receive more confirmation the USA is indeed the main character country of the world I guess."
"Watching the Winter Olympics opening ceremony. Oh no, not Mariah Carey! Time to cover my ears. Was enjoying it until now," a social media user said.
We'd have to imagine the discourse surrounding Carey will continue into the weekend.