Dick Button, the two-time Olympic champion who revolutionized figure skating and later became the sport’s celebrated television commentator, passed away on January 30, 2025, at the age of 95. His daughter, actress Emily Button, confirmed his death from North Salem, New York, where he had lived for many years.
Born on July 18, 1929, in Englewood, New Jersey, Button's skating career began at the age of 12. Just five years later, he achieved national fame, becoming the U.S. champion and eventually winning seven consecutive titles from 1946 to 1952. Not content with just national accolades, he also secured Olympic glory, becoming the youngest male figure skater to win Olympic gold at the 1948 St. Moritz Games. He defended his title successfully at the 1952 Oslo Games, making him the only American to win two Olympic gold medals.
Button made history not just with his victories but also by being the first competitor to land both the double axel and the triple jump during competitions. His ambition and skill redefined the boundaries of figure skating, blending art and athleticism. According to Brian Boitano, the Olympic champion of 1988, "Dick made the words 'lutz' and 'salchow' part of everyday vocabulary,” highlighting Button’s impact on making skating terminology accessible to the general public.
But Button's influence did not end with his skating prowess. He transitioned to commentary and became the preeminent voice of figure skating on television for over five decades. Starting his broadcasting career with CBS during the 1960 Winter Olympics, he moved to ABC two years later, where he would remain for more than 40 years. His style was characterized by pithy wit and impressive sports knowledge, earning him several accolades, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Sports Personality.
Button's broadcasts were known for their educational quality; he helped fans understand the nuances of the sport, from jump techniques to the intricacies of judging. His commentary was marked by honesty; he critiqued poor performances without reservation. On one occasion, he humorously remarked about jarring musical selections, saying, "There seems to have been a mix-up in the recording studio." He maintained his candor throughout his career, famously stating, “I found it disgusting” when referring to the scandal surrounding the attack on Nancy Kerrigan by Tonya Harding's associates.
His collaboration with accomplished skaters like Peggy Fleming generated legendary sporting moments. Fleming noted, "He was like a professor... He taught audiences how to watch skating." This insight was pivotal during ABC broadcasts, where viewers felt guided by Button's expertise as they immersed themselves in performances.
Button also played a significant role behind the scenes, creating opportunities for skaters through initiatives like the World Professional Figure Skaking Championships. His production company, Candid Productions, enhanced visibility for the sport and its athletes, culminating eventually in the iconic television shows 'The Superstars' and 'Battle of the Network Stars.'
While Button’s contributions perhaps shone brightest on the ice and on television, he remained an industry leader advocating for fairness and excellence. He was often seen as the conscience of figure skating, openly criticizing any developments he perceived as detrimental to the sport’s integrity or beauty. His rigorous standards helped preserve the artistry and athleticism he cherished.
Even as television evolved, Button adapted. He remained relevant to newer audiences via social media, offering his sharp insights during the recent Winter Olympics. His commentary on Twitter was as engaging as his broadcasts, just as much appreciated for their enthusiasm as for the occasional sharp critique. “Truly dislike gushy crying finishes … what is this?” he quipped during the Pyeongchang Games, showcasing his enduring charm and straightforward assessment.
Button’s legacy is cemented not only through his remarkable achievements but also through the respect and admiration he earned from fellow athletes and the ice skating community. Tara Lipinski, the 1998 Olympic champion, epitomized this sentiment saying, “He is, and always will be, the godfather of this sport.” Reflecting on the breadth of his influence, Button’s impact on the sport remains unparalleled. His ability to intertwine athletic performance with television storytelling transformed figure skating from niche events to major televised spectacles, drawing enormous audiences.
Button’s death marks the end of an era. His contributions to figure skating cannot be overstated; he redefined the sport's presentation and broadened its reach, inspiring generations of skaters and fans. His approach to skating melded theatricality with technical prowess, keeping audiences enthralled through decades of competition. From executing groundbreaking athletic feats to providing colorful commentary, Dick Button truly left his mark on the world of sports. The figure skating community, mourning the loss of its legendary star, is dedicated to preserving his legacy.