At a Glance
- Shaun White performed an impromptu snowboarding show in Central Park on Jan 25, 2026.
- The 39-year-old Olympic gold medalist jumped over comedian Shane Gillis and later revealed his identity to a cheering crowd.
- White is preparing to serve as NBC’s analyst for the 2026 Winter Games in Milan, his first Olympics since retiring.
Why it matters: The surprise appearance highlights White’s enduring popularity and signals his transition from competitor to broadcaster for the upcoming Games.
Shaun White surprised onlookers in Central Park on Sunday, Jan 25, 2026, as a massive winter snowstorm blanketed New York City. The retired Olympic gold medalist, 39, suited up in an all-white snowsuit and goggles for an impromptu performance that drew a crowd of curious New Yorkers.
Unexpected Performance in Central Park
White entered the park incognito, wearing goggles and a face mask to keep his identity hidden. In videos posted on social media, he wove through the powder, executing a series of flips and tricks that left onlookers in awe. One highlight was an impressive jump over his friend, comedian Shane Gillis, which sparked a shout from a bystander: “That’s gotta be Shaun White!”
After a final set of tricks, White removed his goggles and unveiled his face to the crowd. He posed for photos with fans who marveled at the unexpected display, then posted the moment on Instagram, captioning a shot of himself in midair: “Live from Central Park.”
From Competitor to Commentator
White’s appearance comes just a week before the opening of the 2026 Winter Games in Milan, where he will serve as a broadcaster for NBC. He will join the network’s team to provide commentary during the Opening Ceremony’s Parade of Nations, alongside hosts including Savannah Guthrie.
In an interview with News Of Los Angeles in June, White shared his feelings about this new role:
> “I mean, I’m kind of nervous. This is my first Olympics where I’m just going to go spectate. The Winter Olympics, at least, where I’m not competing,” White said.
He added, “I don’t know. I’m going to be on this side of the fence now cheering for these other athletes. I know there’ll be fun, exciting things for me, but I’m sure there’ll be some sort of nostalgic feelings going through and missing an element of what I used to do when I was in these situations.”
Key Points
- White retired after the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
- He will be NBC’s analyst for the 2026 Games.
- The event marks his first Olympics as a spectator.
White’s Olympic Legacy
White won Olympic gold in the men’s halfpipe snowboarding competition in 2006 (Turin), 2010 (Vancouver) and 2018 (Pyeongchang). The five-time Olympian holds the record for the most Olympic gold medals by a snowboarder.
| Year | Location | Medal |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Turin | Gold |
| 2010 | Vancouver | Gold |
| 2018 | Pyeongchang | Gold |
Looking Ahead to Milan
The 2026 Winter Games will begin on Feb 6, 2026, and will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock. White’s transition from athlete to analyst is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the coverage, and fans anticipate his commentary during the Opening Ceremony Parade of Nations.
Takeaway: Shaun White’s impromptu Central Park show not only delighted onlookers but also marked a pivotal moment in his career, as he shifts from competitor to commentator for the next Winter Olympics.
