Christopher Dean Receives Knighthood in King’s New Year Honours

Ice Skating Legend Honoured for Outstanding Contribution

Ice skating icon Christopher Dean is set to receive a knighthood in the King’s New Year Honours, crowning five decades of service to figure skating. The celebrated duo, who captured Olympic gold at the 1984 Winter Games in Sarajevo, retired from performing this summer after half a century on the ice. This prestigious recognition marks a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary career that has inspired millions worldwide.

A Career Spanning Five Decades

Mr Dean, 67, has previously been recognised with an MBE in 1981 and OBE in 2000, with supporters campaigning for years to see these upgraded to the highest honours. Together with his skating partner Jayne Torvill, Dean transformed the world of ice dancing. Their breathtaking performance of Maurice Ravel’s Boléro not only won them the gold medal but also redefined figure skating. They achieved an incredible score, receiving 12 perfect 6.0s from the judges, and captured the hearts of more than 24 million viewers in the UK.

From Competition to Television Success

Following their competitive retirement, Dean continued to influence the sport through his work on television. The pair came out of retirement in 2006 to serve as choreographers and judges on ITV’s Dancing on Ice, which concluded earlier this year and won them a new generation of fans. Their contribution to popularising ice skating in Britain has been immeasurable, making the sport accessible to audiences across the country.

A Fitting Farewell

Friends since their schooldays, Torvill and Dean completed their farewell tour this year, finishing at Nottingham’s Bolero Square with one final performance of their famous routine. In 2023, the legendary duo embarked on a farewell tour titled “Torvill and Dean: Our Last Dance.” They concluded their performances at Nottingham’s Bolero Square, reminiscing about their Olympic beginnings. This marked a significant moment in their storied careers, as they aimed to finish on a high note.

Significance for British Sport

The knighthood represents more than personal achievement—it acknowledges the profound impact Dean and Torvill have had on British sport and culture. Their remarkable career has earned them millions of admirers worldwide, including members of the Royal Family, and the new honours acknowledge their extraordinary contribution to the sport. For aspiring athletes and fans alike, Christopher Dean’s journey from a young skater in Nottingham to a knight of the realm serves as an inspiring testament to dedication, artistry, and excellence in sport.