Stephen Nedoroscik, fresh off his historic performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, will swap the pommel horse for sequins and salsa on the dance floor, making history as the first male gymnast to compete on 'Dancing with the Stars.'
- August 22, 2024
AceShowbiz - After wowing fans worldwide with his incredible pommel horse routines at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he earned two bronze medals, Stephen Nedoroscik is set to embark on a new challenge. The 25-year-old gymnast, affectionately known as "Pommel Horse Guy," will be the first male gymnast to compete on Season 33 of ABC's "Dancing with the Stars," premiering September 17.
During a live appearance on "Good Morning America," Nedoroscik expressed his excitement for the upcoming competition. "I want to bring some of that gymnastics - maybe a backflip or a handstand," he said. "I want to have fun with it."
Known for his dark-framed glasses that resemble Clark Kent's, Nedoroscik became an overnight sensation, and fans are curious whether he will sport the glasses while dancing. "I'm scared they'll fly off," he admitted. "But maybe we can do a gadget to keep them on, or a new pair of glasses to match the theme."
Nedoroscik's transition from the gymnastics floor to the ballroom is monumental. His stellar performance in Paris, where he won bronze in both the team event and the pommel horse apparatus, made him a household name. His relaxed pre-competition routine, which involved closing his eyes for visualization and breathing exercises, also went viral. "It's kind of what I do just to calm myself down, so I will probably be bringing that to the dance floor," he explained.
Throughout its history, "Dancing with the Stars" has welcomed numerous Olympians, with six ultimately winning the Mirrorball Trophy. Gymnast Shawn Johnson and figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi are among past winners. This legacy places Nedoroscik in distinguished company, and his gymnastics prowess may give him a unique edge in the ballroom.
The full cast for Season 33 will be revealed on September 4, but fans are already buzzing with speculation. Names being suggested include NFL star Jason Kelce, actress Jennifer Love Hewitt, and Spice Girls alum Victoria Beckham. Returning as hosts are Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro while Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli are set to reprise their roles as judges.
As Stephen Nedoroscik prepares to dazzle audiences in a new arena, he embodies the spirit of versatility and determination that defines Olympic athletes. Whether performing flares or the foxtrot, he is sure to bring his A-game to "Dancing with the Stars."
