In a surprising twist at the 2024 Upper Deck NHL Draft, held at the Sphere in Las Vegas, the iconic singer Céline Dion reportedly ordered security to remove Prince Harry from the event.
This incident unfolded on June 28 and has since ignited a firestorm of controversy and debate among fans and media alike.
Known for her powerful vocals and graceful presence, Dion was there to announce the Montreal Canadiens’ fifth-round draft pick when things took an unexpected turn.
The NHL Draft is a highly anticipated annual event that attracts sports fans and celebrities from all walks of life.
When Céline stepped onto the stage, she was introduced as the Canadiens’ number one fan, a title she wore with pride.
Dressed in an elegant white v-neck dress and accompanied by her eldest son, Rene-Charles Angelil, Dion’s entrance was met with raucous cheers and excitement from the crowd.
With a blend of humor and enthusiasm, she approached the microphone, even quipping, “I’m excited.
I’m not even a hockey mom,” before revealing the Canadiens’ pick, Ivan Demidov from Russia.
The atmosphere was electric, filled with anticipation and joy, until it was abruptly disrupted by the unexpected presence of Prince Harry.
Harry, who has often found himself under the public’s watchful eye, attended the draft without an official invitation.
Sources suggest he was drawn to the event out of personal interest in hockey and a wish to connect with the sporting community.
However, his unannounced appearance did not sit well with Dion, who reportedly perceived it as an unwelcome intrusion.
Eyewitnesses noted a stark change in Dion’s demeanor as she spotted Harry mingling with guests.
She quickly exchanged hurried words with the event’s security team, leading to a tense moment when security personnel approached Prince Harry and asked him to leave.
What followed was a scene that captured the attention of everyone in attendance.
Details about the interaction between Prince Harry and security remain somewhat murky.
However, reports indicate that Harry appeared shocked by the request to vacate the premises.
Sources close to him mentioned that he attempted to explain his presence and reason with the staff, but his efforts fell on deaf ears.
As security escorted him out, reactions from the audience were mixed.
Some attendees expressed disbelief and disapproval of Dion’s actions, while others felt she was justified in maintaining the event’s exclusivity and decorum.
The incident quickly became a trending topic across social media platforms and news outlets, with many criticizing Dion for her seemingly harsh behavior towards the prince.
Critics of Dion argued that her actions were unbecoming of someone known for her grace and kindness.
They contended that Harry’s presence, though uninvited, did not warrant such a severe reaction.
Meanwhile, supporters of Prince Harry took to social media to voice their outrage, labeling Dion’s behavior as disrespectful and unnecessary.
In response to the backlash, representatives for Céline Dion issued a statement defending her actions.
They highlighted that Dion’s primary concern was the integrity of the event and the comfort of the invited guests.
The statement clarified that she had not been informed of Prince Harry’s attendance in advance, making her feel that an uninvited guest overshadowing the festivities was inappropriate.
Dion’s surprise appearance at the NHL Draft came just days after the release of her new documentary, “I Am, Céline Dion.”
Directed by Irene Taylor, the film offers an intimate look at her battle with Stiff Person Syndrome, a rare neurological condition she was diagnosed with in August 2022.
The documentary serves as a heartfelt tribute to her fans, showcasing the music that has shaped her life and the resilience she has displayed throughout her struggles.
Since her diagnosis, Dion has faced significant challenges, including the cancellation of tour dates and an intensive treatment regimen involving medication, immune therapy, vocal therapy, and physical rehabilitation.
Despite these hurdles, she remains a beloved figure in the music industry and a dedicated supporter of the Montreal Canadiens.
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