Brian Boitano

Brian Boitano's contribution to the world of figure skating stretches far beyond his impressive competition record. His innovative techniques, particularly the introduction of the "Boitano triple Lutz," marked a new era in the sport's technical advancement. His Olympic journey began with a gold medal at the 1988 Winter Olympics and continued with a return to competition in 1994. His performances during the 1986-87 season, including the introduction of three new elements to his programs, demonstrated his dedication to pushing the limits of the sport. His choreographed program for the 1988 Olympics, set to music from "Napoleon and Josephine," marked his artistic growth and made him the first Olympic champion to land the full complement of six types of triple jumps.

After turning professional in 1988, Boitano continued to make his mark in the figure skating community. His performances in programs such as "Carmen on Ice" and "Nutcracker on Ice" earned him an Emmy Award and further solidified his status in the sport. His work extended beyond the ice, as he co-founded White Canvas Productions to create figure skating shows for live and television audiences, and offered expert commentary for televised skating shows on ABC, NBC, and Turner networks. His book, "Boitano’s Edge: Inside the Real World of Figure Skating," provides readers with an inside look into the sport and has enjoyed three printings.

Boitano's influence extends beyond the rink. His ventures into television and film, including hosting a show on the Food Network and appearances in "South Park," "Blades of Glory," "Ice Princess," and several reality series, have made him a recognized figure in popular culture. His commitment to community development is evident in his founding of Youth Skate, a non-profit organization aimed at introducing inner-city youth in San Francisco to ice skating. He has also received recognition for his contributions, being inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame, the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame, the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame, and the National Italian-American Hall of Fame.