Key Highlights
- Madonna offered her support to American figure skater Amber Glenn before the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- Amy Glenn’s performance was set to Madonna’s “Like a Prayer.”
- Musical rights issues arose for several figure skaters during the games.
- The conflict with Seb McKinnon over music usage was resolved amicably.
Madonna’s Unlikely Support at the Winter Olympics
Amber Glenn, an American figure skater, found herself in a unique situation during the 2026 Winter Olympics. Just as she stepped onto the ice to perform her short program, set to Madonna’s “Like a Prayer,” she received a video message from the legendary pop star wishing her luck.
You might think this is new, but… not really. Madonna has been known for her controversial and sometimes surprising public stances, and this was no exception.
She had seen a clip of Glenn performing to her song and was impressed. “I have to tell you, I was blown away by it,” she said in the video. “You are an incredible skater. So strong, so beautiful, so brave. I can’t imagine that you would not win.
So I just want to say good luck. Go get that gold.”
Glenn’s reaction? “I’m in shock. I’m in complete shock,” she said, adding, “I’m legitimately shaking. Oh my God.” The internet exploded with similar reactions, and Glenn herself couldn’t contain her excitement at the unexpected support.
The Music Rights Dilemma
But amidst this positive buzz, there was a cloud hanging over Glenn’s performance. Her free skate was set to “The Return” by Seb McKinnon, who produces music under the name CLANN. During the team competition, McKinnon was surprised to hear his song played as part of the routine that helped the U.S. win gold.
He posted on social media that Glenn did not have proper permission to use the song, despite it being a part of her program for two years.
McKinnon and Glenn spoke on the phone a couple of days later, and things were smoothed out amicably. “I’m very honored that Amber chose my music for her routine, won gold no less!” McKinnon said. “I’m happy things were resolved amicably and that we both stand for the protection of artist rights.”
Glenn’s response was a mix of gratitude and determination: “You are an icon and a legend forever,” she said, “and thank you for supporting athletes in their artistic ventures. I hope I can do the song justice. Thank you.”
The Broader Context
The issue of music rights became a significant challenge for many figure skaters during the Milan Cortina Games. Several had to seek approval at the last minute, and some were forced to change their programs entirely. This incident highlighted the complexities involved in selecting music that not only fits artistically but also legally within the framework of competitions.
For Glenn, it was a testament to the importance of having a clear understanding of such issues before stepping onto the ice.
The resolution with McKinnon showed that despite initial misunderstandings, dialogue and mutual respect can lead to positive outcomes.
The 2026 Winter Olympics saw an unexpected turn of events with Madonna’s intervention and the ongoing challenges faced by skaters regarding music rights. It’s a reminder that even in a world as competitive and detail-oriented as figure skating, there is always room for both support and resolution.
