Adam Rippon Takes the Spotlight on Team USA’s Next Olympic Stars

Adam Rippon, the figure skater who broke barriers as the first openly gay athlete to compete for Team USA, is now turning the spotlight onto the next generation of Olympic stars.

NBC’s New Podcast Launches

On Tuesday, NBC announced that Rippon will host the multiplatform podcast “My New Favorite Olympian.” The series focuses on Team USA athletes who have overcome adversity, broken barriers, and committed to helping others. It is a continuation of a program that has highlighted the off‑the‑ice accomplishments of Olympic legends.

Rippon’s Legacy and Vision

Rippon’s own journey has earned him a place on “Time”’s 2018 list of the “100 Most Influential People.” He made history as the first openly gay man to compete for Team USA at a Winter Olympics in 2018. When asked about his role, Rippon said, “Participating in the Olympics can be a wonderful platform for those who are committed to making a difference and helping others, and this series shines a light on them before the competition gets underway.” He added, “It’s a real privilege to contribute to this project and share the fascinating stories of several tremendous athletes who’ll be representing our country in Italy. I’ll be rooting for them all to bring home medals.”

Co‑Host and Episode Schedule

Rippon will share the stage with NBC journalist Chase Cain. Cain explains, “We rightfully admire Olympians for their talents and the tremendous dedication that’s allowed them to rise to the top of their chosen sport, but there’s often so much more to their stories.” He continues, “I’m honored to help introduce some remarkable individuals whose personal character, passions and pursuits are just as compelling and inspiring as their athletic accomplishments as they take one of the world’s largest stages in February.”

Episodes will premiere every Thursday from January 15 through February 5, leading up to the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony on February 6. The series will return in March as “My New Favorite Paralympian.”

Past Seasons and Hosts

The most recent season was a seven‑part Paris 2024 series hosted by 12‑time Olympic medalist swimmer Natalie Coughlin. Earlier seasons featured Olympic legend Apolo Ohno (Beijing 2022) and Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad (Tokyo 2020) as hosts. These episodes have built a foundation that now welcomes Rippon and Cain.

Why It Matters

The podcast is more than a pre‑game hype show. It shines a light on athletes’ personal journeys, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs that shape Olympic competitors. By sharing these stories before the games, NBC hopes to inspire viewers and celebrate the human spirit behind the medals.

Key Takeaways

• Adam Rippon, a trailblazing figure skater, will host NBC’s “My New Favorite Olympian.”
• Episodes run Thursday‑to‑Thursday from January 15 to February 5, ahead of the Milan Cortina Games.
• The series will transition to “My New Favorite Paralympian” in March.
• Past hosts include Natalie Coughlin, Apolo Ohno, and Ibtihaj Muhammad.
• The podcast highlights athletes’ off‑the‑ice achievements and personal stories.

Final Thoughts

With Adam Rippon’s historic background and Chase Cain’s journalistic insight, “My New Favorite Olympian” promises to deliver compelling narratives that celebrate the full spectrum of Team USA’s Olympic talent. As the world watches the athletes prepare for the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games, this podcast offers a unique glimpse into the hearts and minds that drive them.

Watch the Games Live

All action from the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Games will be available live on NBC and Peacock.