Dick Button wasn’t just a celebrated men’s figure skater; he was a game-changer whose contributions shaped the sport both on and off the ice. With two Olympic gold medals, five consecutive world championships, and a lifetime of dedication to figure skating, Button became a key figure in transforming the sport into a global phenomenon.
His influence extended beyond competitions as he played a crucial role in promoting the sport and creating opportunities for future generations of skaters.
Early Success and Olympic Gold
Dick Button’s journey to greatness began after World War II, when he became the youngest U.S. men’s champion at just 16 years old in 1946. Two years later, he made history at the 1948 St. Moritz Winter Olympics by becoming the first American to win the men’s figure skating gold medal. During that competition, he also performed the first-ever double axel in figure skating history.
His groundbreaking performance wasn’t perfect, as Button admitted that his double axel had a slight technical flaw. However, he famously said, “I did it, and that’s what counted.” That jump marked the beginning of his dominance in international figure skating and American amateur sports.
In 1952, while studying at Harvard, Button won his second Olympic gold in Oslo, further making history by landing the first triple jump (a loop) in any competition. Soon after, he secured his fifth world championship and retired from amateur skating, as Olympic sports at the time enforced a strict separation between amateur and professional athletes.
Beyond the Ice: A Legacy of Innovation and Influence
After retiring, Button pursued a law degree from Harvard and later became a trailblazing figure in skating promotion. He found creative ways for skaters to earn a living after their competitive careers, organizing televised professional competitions that featured stars like Scott Hamilton, Kristi Yamaguchi, and Katarina Witt.
His company, Candid Productions, was established in 1959 and produced numerous shows, including the popular “Battle of the Network Stars.”
A Pioneering TV Broadcaster
Button’s contributions didn’t stop with event promotion. As a TV analyst, he helped demystify figure skating for audiences unfamiliar with the sport. He earned Emmy Awards for his work and became a household name, explaining technical elements like “lutz” and “salchow” while critiquing performances with honesty.
His straightforward commentary sometimes sparked controversy, but it also earned him respect from skaters and fans alike.
Johnny Weir, a former U.S. champion and current NBC Sports commentator, praised Button’s fearless and candid broadcasting style:
“He told it like it was, even when his opinion wasn’t popular. His critiques pushed athletes to perform better.”
Button’s commentary on ABC’s “Wide World of Sports” was pivotal in popularizing figure skating during the Winter Olympics, and his influence on TV broadcasting remains unmatched.
A Tragic Loss and Lasting Impact
Button passed away on Thursday at the age of 95, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the skating world. His death came shortly after a tragic plane crash involving several members of the U.S. skating community. Button had skated for the Boston Skating Club, which honored him by naming its trophy room after him.
Throughout his life, Button remained deeply connected to the sport he loved. He helped future skaters gain recognition, created professional opportunities, and left a lasting impact on the way figure skating is presented to the world. His innovations and achievements set the standard for generations of skaters, broadcasters, and fans.
Dick Button will forever be remembered as one of the most influential figures in figure skating history. From revolutionizing jumps and performances to enhancing the sport’s television appeal, his legacy is undeniable.
His achievements paved the way for future skaters to thrive, and his pioneering work in broadcasting ensured that figure skating became a key feature of the Winter Olympics. His contributions continue to inspire skaters, commentators, and fans alike, making him a true icon in the world of sports.