Johnny Weir Offers Cryptic Response to Questions About Past Romances with Closeted Athletes
Former Olympic figure skater Johnny Weir found himself fielding a pointed personal question during a live television appearance this week. The exchange occurred on Bravo's Watch What Happens Live with host Andy Cohen, just weeks before Weir is set to return to his popular role as a commentator for NBC Sports' coverage of the upcoming Winter Olympics, alongside fellow skater Tara Lipinski.
A Direct Question from a Viewer
The moment unfolded when a viewer submitted a query directly referencing the popular Netflix series Heated Rivalry, a drama centered on two gay hockey players who secretly fall in love. "When you were a professional skater, did you ever have a 'Heated Rivalry' type romance with a closeted athlete?" the viewer asked.
Host Andy Cohen immediately endorsed the inquiry, calling it a "Good question!" Weir initially deflected, choosing to praise the "impactful" nature of the Netflix show instead of answering directly. "I was so thankful for the show," Weir stated, attempting to steer the conversation toward the program's cultural significance.
Cohen's Persistent Follow-Up
Unwilling to let the topic drop, Cohen pressed for a clearer answer. "So, did you ever date a closeted athlete?" he asked directly. Weir acknowledged his own evasion, replying, "So, I just completely talked around the question."
"Yes, you did," Cohen shot back, maintaining the pressure on his guest to address the subject more forthrightly.
Weir's Eventual, Cryptic Admission
After this back-and-forth, Weir finally warmed to the idea of revealing a small, carefully worded detail. He offered a response that was both suggestive and guarded. "So I certainly had my moments and, you know, I have to say, like, I carry a Birkin," he said, referencing the iconic and expensive luxury handbag. "So I like an opposite that doesn't carry a Birkin ... and that generally, like, goes a little closeted."
This statement strongly implied past romantic involvement with individuals who were not publicly out, while stopping short of explicit confirmation. He was quick to add protective boundaries, stating, "I'm not gonna give you any names." Cohen affirmed this discretion, replying, "I don't expect you to. I don't want you to out anyone."
Weir's Personal History and Upcoming Role
The line of questioning touches on a notable part of Weir's personal history. The U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Famer had not publicly come out as gay during his competitive career, which included appearances at the 2006 and 2010 Winter Olympic Games. He married lawyer Victor Voronov in late 2011, and the couple later separated in 2014.
The interview comes as Weir prepares to resume his high-profile broadcasting duties for NBC next month, where his chemistry with Tara Lipinski has made their Olympic coverage a fan favorite. The exchange on Watch What Happens Live provides a glimpse into the personal reflections of the skating icon, even as he skillfully navigates questions about his past with a mix of humor and deliberate vagueness.
