Dick Button, figure skating champion and commentator, dies at 95

Dick Button, the legendary figure skating champion and Emmy-winning commentator, passed away on January 30, 2025, at the age of 95. 

Button, known for his sharp commentary and rich understanding of the sport, made an indelible mark on both competitive figure skating and its television coverage.

A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Button revolutionized figure skating in the late 1940s and early 1950s with his groundbreaking performances, including the first-ever triple jump in competition. He won gold in 1948 and 1952 and dominated the sport with seven consecutive U.S. men’s titles and five world championships.

Beyond his competitive achievements, Button became a familiar face on television as a sports commentator. His first TV role came in 1960 with CBS, and he later worked for all three major networks, providing expert analysis during the Winter Olympics and other skating competitions. His bold, often acerbic commentary earned him an Emmy award in 1981, and his knowledge of the sport educated generations of viewers.

Button also contributed to the development of skating techniques, including the flying camel spin, and played a key role in making figure skating a popular spectator sport. In his later years, he continued to inspire with his analysis and passion for the sport, making his final Olympic broadcast in 2010.

He is survived by his son, Edward, and daughter, Emily. Button’s legacy in both figure skating and sports broadcasting remains unmatched.