Mariah Carey Hits the Perfect Note at Olympic Opening Ceremony 2026

"Standing here tonight surrounded by so many friendly and familiar faces—people I've worked with, people I've long admired, and even people I thought I'd never see again," she said onstage. "There's so much love, so much music. It's overwhelming in the best possible way. It really is unbelievable."

"Receiving this honor is one of the most profound moments of my life and career, and that's kind of a big deal," she continued. "When you look at the list of artists who have been named Person of the Year before me: legends, icons, my own heroes. To be included in that list is just beyond."

It's a similar feeling to that of speedskater Erin Jackson and bobsledder Frank Del Duca when they were chosen for the honor of being Team USA's flag bearers during the Opening Ceremony—roles voted on by the entire cohort of American athletes going to the Games.

"It means so much," Erin said during a Feb. 3 appearance on Today. "I ran into one of my teammates in the cafeteria yesterday, and he was like, 'I've been voting for you like crazy.' It's a really big honor."

Frank—who is also a U.S. Army Sergeant—added, "It's sort of wearing two uniforms, and I'm grateful for the opportunity. I've learned a lot through serving in the U.S. Army, and I think it's made me a better bobsledder, father, husband, teammate, and just ultimately, I'm very grateful for all of this."

For more of the stars at the 2026 Winter Olympics, keep reading.