Clark Kent of Gymnastics: Stephen Nedoroscik Joins “Dancing With the Stars” for a Super-Powered Season
American gymnast and Olympic bronze medalist Stephen Nedoroscik, famously dubbed the “Clark Kent of pommel horse,” is set to trade his gymnastics routines for dance moves as he joins the cast of Season 33 of “Dancing With the Stars.” The announcement marks Nedoroscik as the first celebrity competitor revealed for the upcoming season, which is set to premiere on September 17.
Nedoroscik, who captured the world’s attention at the 2024 Paris Olympics as part of the U.S. Men’s Gymnastics team, will bring his unique blend of strength, precision, and charm to the dance floor. At just 25 years old, he helped secure the U.S. team’s first Olympic gymnastics medal in 16 years, adding a bronze to his collection. He also clinched an individual bronze on the pommel horse, further cementing his status as one of the sport’s standout performers.
Known for his remarkable abilities on the pommel horse, Nedoroscik became a viral sensation during the Olympics when he removed his glasses before competing, prompting comparisons to the iconic comic book hero, Clark Kent. The official Olympics Twitter account even joined in on the fun, branding him “the Clark Kent of pommel horse.” This comparison has stuck with him, and now, the athlete will channel his inner superhero on one of television’s most popular reality competitions.
In addition to his gymnastics prowess, Nedoroscik has used his platform to raise awareness for individuals with low vision, as he himself lives with strabismus. He explained that while performing without his glasses might blur his vision, it doesn’t hinder his performance because pommel horse routines rely heavily on feeling rather than sight.
“When I go up on the pommel horse, it’s all about feeling the equipment. I don’t even really see when I’m doing my gymnastics. It’s all in the hands — I can feel everything,” Nedoroscik shared in an interview with “TODAY.”
As fans eagerly await the full cast reveal, it’s clear that Nedoroscik’s participation will add a unique flavor to the upcoming season of “Dancing With the Stars.” His journey from the Olympic podium to the dance floor is set to be one of the most anticipated storylines of the season, blending athletic grace with a superhero’s charm.
The new season of “Dancing With the Stars” will be simulcast on ABC and Disney+, with next-day viewing available on Hulu. With Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough returning as co-hosts, and judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough resuming their roles, Season 33 is poised to be an unforgettable spectacle — and Stephen Nedoroscik is ready to bring his A-game.
