E! True Hollywood Story Season 2 Episode 35 Rudy Galindo
- December 13, 1998
Rudy Galindo was a figure skater who rose to fame in the 1990s, becoming the first openly gay man to win the U.S. national championship and the World Junior Championship in 1987. His personal life was marked by tragedy and hardship, including the deaths of several family members and his partner from AIDS.
The episode delves into his early years, growing up in California and starting to skate at a young age, often practicing at the local mall's ice rink. His sister was also a figure skater and the two were often coached by their mother. As a teenager, Galindo's talent was recognized and he began competing at the national level.
Despite his success on the ice, Galindo's personal life was not without its challenges. His father was abusive and his mother struggled with addiction. Galindo came out as gay to his family at the age of 21, which caused some tension and led to a period of estrangement. However, he found acceptance and support from his skating community.
The episode also explores Galindo's partnerships both on and off the ice. He won several national championships with his pairs partner, Kristi Yamaguchi, and the two had a close friendship. Their partnership ended when Yamaguchi decided to focus on singles skating, but they remained friends and Yamaguchi even invited Galindo to perform on her TV special.
Galindo's personal life took a tragic turn in the mid-1990s when his brother and then his father died within months of each other. Around the same time, his partner, George, was diagnosed with AIDS. Galindo cared for him as he battled the disease, but George ultimately passed away. Galindo later revealed that he had also been diagnosed with HIV, but kept it a secret for several years.
Despite these challenges, Galindo continued to skate and achieved one of his greatest victories at the 1996 U.S. national championships, where he became the first openly gay man to win the title. However, he faced criticism and discrimination for his sexuality from some members of the skating community.
The episode also highlights Galindo's post-skating career, which included coaching and performing in ice shows. He also became an advocate for LGBT rights and HIV/AIDS awareness, speaking out about his own diagnosis and encouraging others to get tested.
Overall, the episode provides a moving look at the life and career of a groundbreaking figure skater, who overcame obstacles both on and off the ice to achieve success and inspire others.
