Les rumeurs étaient vraies. After much speculation, Celine Dion has officially announced that she’s planning her epic live comeback with a concert residency at La Défense Arena in Paris, sharing the news on Monday (March 30) — her 58th birthday — in a video that was broadcast beneath the city’s iconic Eiffel Tower.
“I’ve recorded a lot of birthday messages, but this is the first time I’ve ever recorded one for my own birthday,” the vocalist begins in the clip, which was also posted to her social media channels. “I want to let you know that I’m doing great, managing my health, feeling good. I’m singing again, even doing a little dancing.”
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The icon goes on to thank fans for supporting her amid her yearslong battle with Stiff Person Syndrome, which — up until now — has limited her ability to perform live. “Even in my most difficult times, you were there for me,” she says. “You’ve helped me in ways I can’t even describe. I’ve felt your prayers and support, your kindness and love.”
“This year, I’m getting the best birthday gift of my life,” Dion adds. “I’m getting the chance to see you, to perform for you once again in Paris, beginning in September! I’m feeling good. I’m strong. I’m feeling excited — obviously a little nervous — but most of all, I’m grateful to all of you.”
Rumors that Dion was returning to the stage with a slew of Paris shows first emerged a week prior to the official announcement, as posters quoting some of her most iconic songs mysteriously popped up all over the French capital. Around that time, it was reported that she would play a series of shows at La Défense, which turned out to be true; the hitmaker’s stay at the venue will kick off Sept. 12 and run through Oct. 14.
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The last time Dion performed for the public was in 2024, singing a stirring rendition Edith Piaf’s “Hymne A L’Amour” from within the Eiffel Tower during that year’s Olympics opening ceremony. Before that, it had been years since she’d sung live. She first revealed she’d been diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome — a rare neurological disorder that causes severe muscle spasms — in 2022, with the condition causing her to cancel her most recent tour.
See Dion’s video and with the full list of dates for her upcoming Paris residency below.
