Amber Glenn Celebrates LGBTQ+ Visibility on Dancing With the Stars

Olympic figure skater Amber Glenn has spoken about the importance of LGBTQ+ representation as she continues competing on Dancing With the Stars, bringing her sporting achievements and personal identity to a new television audience.

The openly bisexual American athlete discussed her experiences in an interview published on 21 October 2026, reflecting on the opportunities that have followed her success in figure skating. Her appearance on the entertainment programme has allowed her to reach viewers who may be unfamiliar with her sporting career while continuing to celebrate LGBTQ+ visibility.

From figure skating to television

Glenn made history in 2024 when she became the first openly LGBTQ+ woman to win the US national figure skating title. Her achievements have since established her as an influential figure in American winter sport, with her openness about her sexuality becoming an important part of her public profile.

Competing on Dancing With the Stars presents a different challenge from performing on ice, requiring Glenn to adapt her athletic abilities to ballroom routines and work closely with a professional dance partner. The programme also gives her an opportunity to express different aspects of her personality outside the competitive skating environment.

How Heated Rivalry inspired Amber Glenn

One of Glenn's performances drew inspiration from Heated Rivalry, the television romance exploring the relationship between two rival male ice hockey players. The routine connected her sporting background with a story that has attracted attention for its portrayal of a same-sex relationship.

Glenn's enthusiasm for LGBTQ+ storytelling reflects her wider commitment to visibility and acceptance. By incorporating inspiration from a gay romance into a mainstream entertainment programme, she has brought together audiences interested in sport, television and LGBTQ+ representation.

Why LGBTQ+ visibility matters to her

Throughout her career, Glenn has spoken openly about the challenges of being a visible LGBTQ+ athlete, including the negative attention she has received because of her identity. Despite those experiences, she has continued to use her platform to encourage acceptance and support others who may be struggling with their own identities.

Her appearance on Dancing With the Stars represents another opportunity to demonstrate that sporting success and personal authenticity can exist together. As the competition continues, Glenn is pursuing a new achievement while introducing more viewers to an athlete who has already made history in her sport.

Where to watch: Dancing With the Stars airs on ABC in the United States, with streaming through Hulu and Disney+ in supported territories.