Olympic Gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik Joins New Season Of ‘Dancing With The Stars’

Olympic bronze medalist Stephen Nedoroscik will trade his pommel horse for dancing shoes as the first celebrity contestant announced for the upcoming  Dancing with the Stars season.

The 25-year-old gymnast, who recently helped the U.S. men’s team secure their first Olympic medal in 16 years, was revealed as a cast member Thursday on ABC’s Good Morning America.

Nedoroscik, known for his prowess on the pommel horse, expressed enthusiasm about bringing his athletic skills to the ballroom. “I want to incorporate some flares, maybe a backflip or handstand,” he told host Robin Roberts. “I’m very excited.”

The gymnast’s participation marks a milestone for the show, as he will be the first male gymnast to compete for the mirrorball trophy. Nedoroscik’s Olympic journey in Paris this summer captivated audiences, with his crucial performance helping to clinch the team bronze. He later earned an individual bronze medal in the pommel horse final.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Nedoroscik gained internet fame for his thick glasses, which drew comparisons to Superman’s alter ego, Clark Kent. However, he often competes without them, stating, “I don’t think I actually use my eyes on pommel horse. It’s all feeling. I see with my hands.”

Nedoroscik‘s appearance on the show may raise awareness of vision impairment. The athlete has strabismus and coloboma, conditions that affect his eyesight. During the Olympics, he made headlines for a touching moment with a young fan who shared his diagnosis.

When asked about wearing his signature glasses while dancing, Nedoroscik playfully suggested he might incorporate them into his performances, possibly with “a gadget to keep them on” or “a new pair to match the theme.”

The 33rd season of Dancing with the Stars will feature the return of Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro as hosts, with Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough reprising their roles as judges.

Fans can watch the season premiere on Sept. 17 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+. The episode will then be available for streaming on Hulu.