Mariah Carey’s Olympic Performance Sparks Lip-Syncing and Teleprompter Speculation

Mariah Carey’s performance at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony on February 6, 2026, generated both admiration and controversy. The pop icon’s rendition of the Italian classic “Nel Blu Dipinto di Blu,” known as “Volare,” captivated many but also raised questions about her authenticity as a performer.

Key Highlights of Mariah Carey’s Performance

The 3½-hour ceremony was a grand spectacle, introducing the Winter Games to an international audience. Carey expressed her excitement on Instagram, describing performing in Italian as a “dream come true.” Her high notes were praised, yet online critics questioned why an Italian artist wasn’t selected for this iconic moment.

Criticism and Speculation

• Social media users debated whether Carey was lip-syncing during her performance.
• A large teleprompter displaying phonetic lyrics attracted attention, suggesting she needed assistance with the Italian language.
• Three reporters, including those from The Associated Press, raised questions at a news conference about these concerns.

Response from Organizers

Maria Laura Iascone, director of ceremonies for the Milan Cortina, deemed Carey’s performance “exceptional” and a “magic moment.” However, she was evasive when asked if Carey lip-synced, emphasizing that performances are typically recorded in advance for international broadcasts. Interestingly, Carey reportedly did not receive any payment for her participation.

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The visible teleprompter featured phonetic breakdowns of the lyrics, such as “Voh-lah-reh” for “Volare.” Iascone stated that using a teleprompter is standard for artists singing in non-native languages, ensuring proper pronunciation. She underscored that this practice is meant to support performers during such significant events.

Other Notable Performers

The ceremony also featured prominent Italian artists, including tenor Andrea Bocelli and singer-songwriter Laura Pausini. While Carey received both acclaim and criticism, her impact on the opening ceremony remains a hot topic.

Future discussions surrounding the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics are likely to include the blend of international pop culture with traditional ceremonies. As Mariah Carey continues to be a focal point, the implications of her performance will be analyzed for their significance in the world of sports and entertainment.