If you were one of the millions who tuned into the Winter Olympics in Sochi on NBC this past February, then you are probably familiar with Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir.
While they were not competing themselves, they won rave reviews for their figure skating commentary. Lipinski is an Olympic champion herself and Weir is a three-time national champion, so they brought a set of well-trained eyes to the table.
Perhaps more importantly, they just clicked hilariously and everyone took notice — especially NBC, which has elevated Lipinski and Weir to primary commentators for the network, displacing Scott Hamilton and Sandra Bezic.
On Oct. 26, the duo, along with Terry Gannon, will make their formal debut in NBC's coveted position, providing live analysis for Skate America, the first international competition of the new figure skating season. Hamilton, Bezic and Tom Hammond have been at the reins for four Olympic cycles and have all responded quite graciously to being displaced.
Hamilton, one of the most beloved names in the sport and a 1984 Olympic champion, shared his thoughts on NBC's switching things up, saying, "I was blessed to have that seat for seven Olympics. I always had the best interests of skating and the skaters at heart. I never wanted it to be about me, and I still don't. I wish them great success."
Hamilton anticipates possibly working in a studio role now as a contributor to the network's figure-skating coverage. Bezic has been choreographing, directing and working in front of the cameras, providing color commentary for more than 20 years now and a new position will no doubt pop up for her this season as well.
As for Lipinski and Weir, fans are thrilled to learn they will be a season constant.
Weir is well-known for his eccentricities and colorful yet brutal commentary. Lipinski plays off him well and reins Weir back in when he goes a little too far off the grid.
What are your thoughts on this new duo taking over NBC's commentary duties for the upcoming skating season? Comment below.
