Figure skating legend Dick Button, known for his groundbreaking achievements and significant contributions to the sport, has passed away at the age of 95. He died on January 30, 2025, at his home in North Salem, New York, as confirmed by his son Edward. U.S. Figure SkATING announced his death, noting it was due to natural causes, but did not elaborate.
Button's impressive career began shortly after World War II. He made history by becoming the first U.S. men's champion when the competition resumed in 1946, and he cemented his legacy by winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals at the 1948 St. Moritz and the 1952 Oslo Winter Games. He was not only the youngest man to win Olympic gold, but he also performed the first double axel and first triple loop jumps in competition history, showcasing his incredible technical prowess on the ice.
“Dick was one of the most important figures in our sport,” said Olympic champion Scott Hamilton, reflecting on Button's influence. Throughout his career, Button won five consecutive world championships and brought visibility to figure skating through his Emmy-winning commentary on television. He was regarded as the voice of figure skating across multiple network broadcasts for over four decades, which helped to grow the sport’s popularity.
Button was particularly known for making the technical aspects of figure skating accessible to the general public. By dissecting performances and sharing insights, he transformed how audiences engaged with the sport. “The two-time Olympic champion's revolutionary style... will live on forever,” U.S. Figure SkATING stated. Many skaters attribute their careers to Button’s mentorship and support.
Following his competitive skating career, Button remained actively involved as an organizer of professional events, such as the World Professional Figure SkATING Championships, and was also recognized for his acting and production work. He founded Candid Productions and took part in organizing many televised skating events. His efforts provided athletes with platforms to perform and achieve recognition outside of the Olympic framework.
Tragically, Button’s death coincided with another dark day for the skating community. On the same evening, news broke of a plane crash near Washington, DC, claiming the lives of 14 individuals associated with the sport, including young talents from the SkATING Club of Boston. Button was closely associated with this community, and the trophy room at the club is named in his honor.
“This is the most heartbreaking day...we have lost a legend, visionary...Mr. Dick Button,” expressed Kristi Yamaguchi, the 1992 Olympic champion, through social media. This sentiment was echoed across the skating community, which is mourning the loss of both Button and their colleagues from the recent crash.
Brian Boitano, another Olympic gold medalist, spoke highly of Button, stating, “He was an innovator, the master of triple jumps... his impact on the sport is unparalleled.” The legacy of Dick Button is not just marked by titles, but by the transformative effect he had on figure skating and those who participated in it.
Johnny Weir, three-time U.S. champion and current NBC Sports figure skating analyst, emphasized Button's hard-hitting commentary style, noting, “Dick Button created... where no topic or moment was off-limits.” Button’s ability to communicate candidly about the sport has left its mark, inspiring new generations.
Reflecting on his own career, Button once said, “I had achieved everything I could have dreamed of doing as a skater,” showcasing his deep connection to the sport and its evolution. His influence will surely carry on through the countless lives he touched.
The world of figure skating will continue to reverberate with Button’s legacy long after his passing, as we celebrate not only his achievements but the spirit of innovation he brought to the ice. His contributions extend beyond titles and records; they include the joy and excitement for the sport he nurtured and promoted throughout his life.
Dick Button leaves behind two children and the memories of a truly remarkable life dedicated to figure skating. His role as both competitor and commentator has made him indelible to the sport's history, and his innovative spirit will be missed deeply.