NBC has taken a decisive step in its Winter Olympics coverage plans. The network removed retired French ice dancer Gabriella Papadakis from its on-air analyst team. NBC confirmed this move on Thursday, January 16, 2026.
Why NBC Made This Decision
The timing of the decision is significant. NBC announced it just hours after Papadakis released her new memoir in France. The book, titled Pour ne pas disparaître (So as Not to Disappear), contains serious allegations about her former skating partner, Guillaume Cizeron.
NBC stated the memoir created a clear conflict of interest. This conflict led the network to conclude Papadakis could no longer serve as a trusted analyst.
NBC's Official Statement
NBC shared its reasoning in a statement provided to Sportico. The network expressed respect for Papadakis's right to share her story. However, it emphasized its primary duty to its audience.
"We respect Gabriella's right to tell the story of her life and career," NBC said. "At the same time, her new book creates a clear conflict of interest. Our responsibility is to deliver coverage our audience can trust to be free of bias, and we regret that is no longer possible."
Papadakis had been working with NBC Sports since January 2025. She was already listed among the 82 broadcasters and analysts for next month's coverage before her sudden removal.
Explosive Claims in the Memoir
Papadakis's book describes her time skating with Guillaume Cizeron in stark terms. She portrays their partnership as a painful experience. She claims Cizeron was "controlling," "demanding," and often "critical."
She wrote that she sometimes refused to skate with him. She felt she was "under his grip." Beyond the professional allegations, the memoir delves into deeply personal territory. Papadakis shares stories of emotional struggles, sexual assaults, and an abortion during her younger years.
Guillaume Cizeron's Strong Denial
Guillaume Cizeron responded quickly to the book's publication. He issued a public statement strongly denying all the claims made against him. Cizeron called the book a "smear campaign."
"I want to express my incomprehension and disagreement with the labels attributed to me," Cizeron said. "The book contains false information and statements I have never made."
He confirmed that he has instructed his lawyers to intervene. Their task is to formally warn against the spread of what he calls false claims.
Cizeron's Current Focus
The 31-year-old skater is now preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics. He is expected to compete with his new partner, Laurence Fournier Beaudry. Cizeron reflected on his long history with Papadakis despite their split.
"For more than 20 years, I have shown deep respect for Gabriella Papadakis," he added. "Despite changes in our relationship, our journey included success and support."
A Decorated Partnership Ends
Papadakis and Cizeron ended their legendary partnership in December 2024. Together, they formed one of the most successful ice dance teams in history. Their achievements are remarkable:
- Olympic gold and silver medals
- Five World Championship titles
- Five European Championship titles
- Two Grand Prix Finals victories
- Record-setting performances at the Beijing Winter Olympics
NBC's decision underscores the high standards for impartiality in sports broadcasting. The network chose to protect its editorial integrity over retaining a high-profile analyst. This move comes just weeks before the Winter Games begin, highlighting the immediate impact of Papadakis's literary revelations.
