The most streamed female Francophone artist has become a target in France's culture wars ahead of Paris 2024

A popular pop star, Aya Nakamura, is at the center of France’s culture wars ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics. Some members of the far-right in France have questioned her embodiment of French heritage and identity. Nakamura, who is of Malian and French citizenship, has defended herself on social media. France’s Minister of Culture has spoken out in support of Nakamura, while the Paris 2024 organizing committee has offered its full support. The potential performance of Nakamura at the Games’ Opening Ceremony remains unconfirmed. France’s cultural divisions are amplified on social media, with heated reactions to Nakamura indicating a pessimistic outlook for unity at the Olympics.