Olympic Style Icons: Johnny Weir and Tara Lipinski Dazzle at the Milano Cortina Games
The ice at the Milano Cortina Games wasn't the only place where sparks flew during the men's free skate finals. NBC's beloved figure skating commentators, former Olympic medalists Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir, once again captured attention not just for their insightful commentary, but for their show-stopping fashion choices. The dynamic duo, known for their unique and often daring sartorial selections, proved that the Olympics are as much a stage for style as they are for athletic achievement.
A Night of Fashion and Figure Skating Brilliance
As the world watched American phenom Ilia Malinin vie for his first individual Olympic gold, Lipinski and Weir provided the perfect blend of expert analysis and captivating visual flair. The pair, who have become synonymous with Olympic figure skating coverage for NBC, have cultivated a reputation for their complementary yet distinct styles. For this pivotal night on the ice, Lipinski opted for an elegant, full-length white dress, exuding classic sophistication. In stark contrast, Weir embraced his signature avant-garde aesthetic with an eye-catching "Elf green" ensemble, proving once again his mastery of bold color and design.
From Skaters to Style Mavens
Both Lipinski and Weir transitioned from celebrated competitive careers to prominent roles in sports broadcasting. Tara Lipinski, who made history by winning Olympic gold at just 15 years old in the 1998 Nagano Games, retired from amateur skating that same year. Her grace and poise on the ice have translated seamlessly into her commentary. Johnny Weir, a three-time U.S. national champion, retired from competitive skating in 2013. While he may not have medaled at the Olympics, his electrifying performances and magnetic personality made him a perennial fan favorite, a status he continues to hold, amplified by his fearless approach to fashion.
More Than Just Commentators: A Powerhouse Pairing
Lipinski and Weir’s chemistry extends beyond the broadcast booth. They have developed a remarkable rapport, making their commentary engaging and often entertaining. Their on-screen interactions have become a highlight of the Winter Games, from playful moments like Lipinski emerging from Weir's jacket to synchronized lip-syncing and dancing videos. This camaraderie, coupled with their shared passion for figure skating, makes them an indispensable part of NBC's Olympic coverage, alongside fellow commentator Terry Gannon.
Their fashion prowess isn't limited to the Olympics. The pair has been known to make waves with their attire at various sporting events. Reports from earlier in the Milano Cortina Games mentioned them causing a stir with matching sparkly outfits, and a previous notable moment involved Lipinski's stunning red dress upstaging Weir's vibrant green fit. This consistent display of personality through their clothing underscores their status as style icons within the sports world.
Beyond the Broadcast Booth: What's Next for Lipinski and Weir?
When they aren't gracing the Olympic broadcast, Lipinski and Weir are expanding their reach into other areas of entertainment. Both are currently starring in Peacock's popular reality series, "The Traitors," showcasing their personalities in a different competitive arena. Personally, Tara Lipinski has been married to TV producer Todd Kapostasy since 2017. Johnny Weir was previously married to lawyer Victor Voronov, with whom he divorced in 2014. Their diverse career paths and continued public presence ensure they remain prominent figures in the sports and entertainment landscape.
As the Milano Cortina Games continue, the fashion and commentary of Johnny Weir and Tara Lipinski remain a guaranteed highlight, proving that style and substance can, and indeed do, go hand-in-hand on the Olympic stage. Their ability to balance insightful analysis with unforgettable fashion moments solidifies their legacy as not just commentators, but as true Olympic personalities.
