Amber Glenn: From Olympic Ice to the Dancing With the Stars Ballroom
Amber Glenn, the trailblazing figure skater who captured hearts at the 2026 Winter Olympics, is swapping her skates for dancing shoes. The 26-year-old Olympian is set to join the cast of Dancing With the Stars Season 35, where she will partner with pro dancer Pasha Pashkov and compete for the coveted Mirrorball trophy. Glenn’s transition from the ice to the ballroom marks an exciting new chapter in her already remarkable career.
Glenn made history as the first queer female skater to represent the United States at the Olympics, a milestone that solidified her status as a role model for the LGBTQ+ community. Her journey has been one of resilience and self-discovery. In a candid interview, she revealed that when she came out, she was told her sexuality was unimportant instead of receiving support to understand it—a response she found hurtful. Despite such challenges, Glenn has become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights, using her platform to inspire others.
A native of Plano, Texas, Glenn is the daughter of Richard and Cathlene Glenn and has a younger sister, Brooke. She began skating at age five and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the sixth woman to successfully land the triple Axel in competition. Her impressive résumé includes numerous champion titles, and she has represented the U.S. at the highest levels, including the Grand Prix series. Off the ice, Glenn enjoys a variety of interests: she is an avid Magic: The Gathering player, a content creator, and a fan of anime and Star Wars. Her dog, Uki, is named after Ukkima, a card from MTG, showcasing her passion for the game.
As Glenn prepares to trade the rink for the dance floor, fans are eager to see her bring the same determination and grace to Dancing With the Stars. Her participation not only highlights her versatility as an athlete but also continues her legacy of breaking barriers and embracing new challenges. Whether she’s landing a triple Axel or mastering a tango, Amber Glenn remains a powerful inspiration both on and off the ice.
Shimanta Das 
