THE Qatar World Cup that started just today has been attacked by activists for many years, with accusations of corruption and poor human rights record by the host country, to the point that many celebrities and artists were hesitant about associating with the event.
The usually beloved Morgan Freeman, who has a career stretching decades and including films such as The Shawshank Redemption, Million Dollar Baby and The Dark Knight, even becoming known as the Voice of God when he narrates numerous projects.
The voice has now gotten him in trouble with some quarters as he has been labelled a 'sellout' with 'blood on his hands' after accepting Qatari cash to front the opening ceremony to the World Cup.
However, plenty of other viewers found the 85-year-old Freeman to be powerful and moving. He shared the stage with Ghanim Al-Muftah, a Qatari activist for the disabled, born with the rare Caudal Regression Syndrome, who stated to the crowd: “Everyone is welcome”.
Freeman's appearance was surprising given his previous ambitions to help the USA win the 2022 World Cup hosting rights. In 2010, he travelled to Zurich as part of the US bid team, alongside former US President Bill Clinton and other prominent figures.
Despite his name, Freeman very likely received substantial payment for playing such a prominent role in the opening ceremony. – The Vibes, November 21, 2022
