Was Johnny Weir too much at the Olympics?

I'll have to admit, at first I thought his flamboyance was just, well, too much. But as it turned out, I grew to like him better than any of the other Olympics announcers. He was fresh and honest and funny, and his partnership with Tara Lipinksi just kicked butt over Scott Hamilton's tired old prime-time figure skating announcing team.

And even the over-the-top outfits were fun.

However, most importantly, in an Olympics that seemed to go out of its way to avoid discussing Russia's treatment of gay people, Weir wouldn't let them ignore it. By being so out, he was a constant reminder to TV viewers and the people of Sochi, and he was the only TV announcer I heard actually discuss Russia's hateful laws.

Way to go, Johnny, and surprisingly, I hope to see a lot more of you. (Note that in this story, it says that he and Tara are already signed up to do Oscar fashion commentary!)

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/olympics/soc … y/5728939/
By BearinFW | 02/23/2014 12:23 AM | 4 comments
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  • Johnny Weir the Don Cherry of figure skating!
    barney290 02/23/2014 09:23 AM
  • Tara sure blossomed into quite a young lady and so did Johnny. The combo were a refreshing change from the manic style of Scott Hamilton. Then again, Scott was a nice change from Dick Button. I guess each new Olympics brings new talent to the ice and the booth. I saw the piece last night on all the different outfits Johnny brought with him and wore, and it brings new meaning to traveling light.
    fenwaydav 02/23/2014 07:37 AM
  • Johnny's flame just burns brighter and brighter by the day. I was uncomfortable watching, but you can't keep a free spirit tied down.
    Consign 02/23/2014 07:20 AM
  • Two thumbs up on that one Bear. I've been catching their (Weir & Lipinski) commentary and Olympics at my work (supposedly working!), and, skating, which is not my favorite events, has been so much more meaningful with their commentary. They have been tireless--and their hard work gives so much insight that the skating performances are pretty darn fun to watch. The cool thing is that all the prep means that they rarely speak during the performances--it's a nice change.

    All their sparkling accessories and flashy clothing, coming from a guy who dresses in shorts and t-shirts 24/7, has been pretty fun too. :)

    Gotta say it, they have been absolutely fabulous.
    furball 02/23/2014 01:46 AM