Additional Coverage:
- Olympic Figure Skater Joining ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Had Her Best-Ever Performance to This ’80s Classic (parade.com)
Amber Glenn, the celebrated Olympic figure skater, is swapping her ice skates for dancing shoes as she joins Season 35 of Dancing With the Stars. Known for her dramatic and captivating performances on the ice, Glenn will bring that same flair to the ballroom alongside professional partner Pasha Pashkov when the new season premieres on September 15 and 16.
Glenn’s theatrical style was on full display earlier this year at the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, where she delivered a standout routine to Madonna’s iconic “Like a Prayer.”
Dressed in a striking dark red costume reminiscent of Madonna’s 1989 music video, Glenn’s performance combined technical skill with compelling artistry. She landed a flawless triple Axel, executed a challenging triple flip-triple toe combination, and earned top marks on her spins and step sequence, finishing with an impressive score of 83.05.
This score set a new record for the highest short program score by a U.S. woman at the national championships.
What made Glenn’s “Like a Prayer” routine especially memorable was her ability to fully embody the spirit of the song, transforming the program into a theatrical experience that resonated deeply with audiences. It’s this level of performance-beyond just technical precision-that positions her well for Dancing With the Stars, where storytelling through movement is just as important as the steps themselves.
A longtime fan of the show, Glenn has admired other Olympians, including Meryl Davis, who have competed on DWTS. Now, she’s ready to tackle a new challenge, moving from Olympic ice skating to the dance floor in pursuit of the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.
Whether or not she takes home the prize, viewers can look forward to an exciting season with Amber Glenn bringing her signature passion and artistry to Dancing With the Stars.