Mariah Carey performed at the opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina Olympics alongside Andrea Bocelli and Laura Pausini, showcasing her presence in an eye-catching light outfit. However, many viewers noted that she did not seem to make a striking impression, despite being a headline act. Carey sang 'Nel Blu, dipinto di blu' by Domenico Modugno and her own piece 'Nothing is Impossible', yet the performance was perceived as lackluster due to the evident use of playback.

Critics were quick to point out Carey’s minimal movement and seeming disengagement during her performance, interpreting her lip-syncing as a sign of discomfort. Tabloids like The Sun highlighted the lack of stage presence, emphasizing that her performance did not capture the audience's attention as well as expected from such a celebrated artist. Social media also buzzed with comments about her seeming incapacity to deliver a vibrant live performance, with many pointing out how she did not sing live and barely moved.

Overall, Carey's performance became a talking point not just for her song choices but also for the awkwardness displayed on stage, marking a stark contrast to the energetic nature typically expected at significant international events like the Olympics. This performance has sparked discussions about expectations for live performances at prestigious ceremonies and the pitfalls of relying on playback in high-profile situations.