Olympics closing ceremony LIVE: Tom Cruise, Billie Eilish and Snoop Dogg star in Paris 2024 finale

“All of the journey books will let you know to keep away from Paris in August – it’s too crowded, too scorching and the whole lot is shut.

“Properly, maybe, these final two weeks have taught us to neglect all these stereotypes in regards to the French, with their smiling waiters, dependable public transport and cooling rain.

“And as for his or her nice summer time custom of strikes and riots, sadly that moved a bit of nearer to residence.

“Whisper it quietly however Paris noticed London 2012 and raised it.”

Last reflections on Paris 2024, by James Toney.

An exquisite rendition of My Manner from Yseult, adopted by a closing, spectacular firework show, across the roof of the Parc des Princes, brings the evening to a detailed.

Properly performed, Paris. You probably did do the Olympics your method, and it was good.

That was excellent from LA. They received simply who they wished to kick begin the occasion forward of 2028!

Now we’re again to Paris, as Leon Marchand lastly completes his lengthy stroll with the Olympic flame.

He’s cradling the lantern so fastidiously!

Thomas Bach declares the Olympics of Paris 2024 are closed… and Marchand blows out the flame to symbolise it!

Over to 2028: Paris, you’ve been very good, Los Angeles you’ve an enormous act to observe.

Time for the MVP of Paris 2024. He’s been in every single place in Paris, however now he’s again residence!

Snoop Dogg takes to the stage in Lengthy Seaside, with Drop it Like It’s Sizzling.

AND HE’S GOT DR DRE ON STAGE TOO!

Two West Coast legends, reuniting as soon as once more for The Subsequent Episode.

Compton, Lengthy Seaside, Inglewood, South Central out to the Westside, It’s California Love.

Over to their left, by a seashore hut, it’s Billie Eilish!

Eilish seems to be effortlessly cool within the LA warmth, with a baseball cap and Ralph Lauren polo as she sings Birds of a Feather.

With the Olympic flag now delivered to Lengthy Seaside with assist from Michael Johnson, we’re in LA now, vibrant blue sky, golden seashore…

… and the Crimson Sizzling Chili Peppers!

The occasion has moved on from Paris to LA.

Okay that is getting wild now. Tom Cruise units off by the streets, assembly a jumbo jet at a hanger.

The heist of the Olympic flag full, he skydives over the Californian hills and into the north Los Angeles.

He covers the Hollywood signal with the Olympic rings!

TOM CRUISE IS ON THE ROOF TOM CRUISE IS ON THE ROOF

High Gun launches himself into the Stade de France, what an entrance!

He’s mobbed by athletes befroe leaping onto the stage, he shakes arms with Simone Biles, picks up the Olympic flag…

after which… after which… TAKES OFF ON A MOTORBIKE

Okay yeah it’s America time. A guitar-filled, power-ballad of the US nationwide anthem now fills Paris, as H.E.R. belts out the phrases.

She nails it! What a begin.