Canadian figure skaters glide on the ice with finesse, accuracy, and vigour, crafting mesmerizing performances. Figure skaters stand out for their intricate jumps, spins, footwork, and choreography on the ice. Music often accentuates their routines, adding a captivating artistic component that delights spectators.
These Canadian athletes have made a name for themselves globally by consistently showcasing remarkable technique, ingenuity, and dedication to their field. Their accomplishments span Olympic medals, World Championships, and Grand Prix titles, distinguishing them as some of the world’s finest.
The best Canadian figure skaters possess exceptional technical dexterity, artistic expressiveness, and mental fortitude. They should master figure skating fundamentals by mastering jumps, spins, and complex footwork. Furthermore, they must portray creativity through choreography while emotionally connecting with spectators and judges. The imaginative performances make figure skating one of the most popular sports in Canada.
Discover our list of the most famous figure skaters in Canada.
What makes the best figure skaters?

We’ll judge the best Canadian figure skaters based on these criteria:
Technical skills
Technical expertise forms the backbone of figure skating performance. Outstanding ice skating abilities include mastering jumps, spins, and complex footwork, demonstrating accuracy, control, and athleticism. Lacking robust technical capabilities makes it difficult for figure skaters to perform the demanding elements needed at elite competitions, such as the Olympics and World Championships.
Artistry
In addition to performing technically demanding elements, skaters must convey emotions and narrate stories through their performances. Artistic expression integrates music interpretation, choreography, and presentation, allowing skaters to establish a profound connection with their audience. Figure skaters elevate their performances by adding depth and nuance to their routines.
Consistency
Consistency represents the capacity to deliver outstanding performances throughout numerous competitions and seasons consistently. The most accomplished figure skaters don’t exhibit random moments of excellence. They sustain exceptional performance levels over time.
Creativity
While technical aspects are standardized, inventive interpretations of music, ground-breaking choreography, and original artistic selections enable an individual style to emerge. Creativity infuses novelty and exhilaration into each performance. It exemplifies a skater’s willingness to embrace risks and defy conventions.
List of famous Canadian figure skaters
- Elvis Stojko
- Joannie Rochette
- Tessa Virtue
- Scott Moir
- Patrick Chan
- Elizabeth Manley
- Jeffrey Buttle
- Alaine Chartrand
- Kaetlyn Osmond
- Barbara Ann Scott
- Brian Orser
- Kurt Browning
- Meagan Duhamel
- Eric Radford
Elvis Stojko
Top Canadian figure skater from Newmarket

Elvis Stojko is one of the most famous Canadian athletes with a lasting legend in figure skating. A trailblazer in his field, Elvis’ triple-axel jump perfection transformed men’s figure skating altogether. His technical prowess and unwavering determination enabled him to execute this challenging feat flawlessly, raising the bar in the sport.
Aside from perfecting the triple Axel, Elvis exhibited his exceptional talent internationally by securing three World Figure Skating Championship titles. During the mid-1990s, Elvis’s supremacy solidified his status as one of the foremost figure skaters of his era. Elvis Stojko claimed two Olympic Silver Medals in 1994 and 1998.
During his routines, Elvis masterfully intertwined athleticism with artistic expression, enchanting global audiences. His performances were a harmonious marriage of powerful leaps, elegant spins, complex footwork, and deep emotional resonance. Furthermore, Elvis’ inventive spirit expanded men’s figure skating horizons. He incorporated new elements and combinations into his routines.
Joannie Rochette
Famous Canadian figure skater from Montreal

Joannie Rochette is a celebrated Canadian figure skater. Her foremost milestone, an Olympic bronze medal at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, holds a special place in the sport’s history. Joannie’s emotional and brave act carried out merely days after her mother’s unexpected passing, showcased her resilience and elegance in the face of emotional distress.
Beyond her Olympic accomplishments, Joannie Rochette’s silver medal at the 2009 World Figure Skating Championships demonstrated her talent on a global platform. Recognized for her technical accuracy, Joannie dazzled with her iconic triple Lutz-double loop combination, portraying athleticism and finesse that created an enduring impression. Her trio of Canadian national championship titles further validated her supremacy within Canada’s skating scene.
Tessa Virtue
Famous Canadian ice dancer from London

Tessa Virtue is one of the most famous Canadian ice dancers who has impacted figure skating. Her extraordinary Olympic journey stands out as her first notable accomplishment. Tessa Virtue and her partner Scott Moir broke records by becoming the inaugural North American ice dance duo to garner three Olympic gold medals.
Over time, Tessa has demonstrated exceptional athleticism. She also formed a deep bond with her partner, culminating in enchanting performances. She effortlessly shifted between diverse styles and themes in her routines during her career. Tessa’s capacity to embrace and thrive in various artistic and technical aspects revealed her versatile talents.
In addition, her groundbreaking choreography, characterized by complex footwork and lifts, propelled ice dance into uncharted territory, sparking a revolution in the discipline. Tessa’s unwavering dedication to innovation in ice dancing resulted in mesmerizing routines that captured audiences’ hearts worldwide.
Scott Moir
Popular Canadian ice dancer from London

Scott Moir is a famous Canadian ice dancer. His remarkable Olympic journey with partner Tessa Virtue showcases his extraordinary talent. Alongside Tessa, Scott broke records by becoming the first North American ice dance duo to win three Olympic gold medals.
Over time, Scott has displayed remarkable athleticism and a deep connection with his partner. The pair’s exceptional journey began in their youth, culminating in one of the longest-lasting and triumphant partnerships in figure skating history. This extensive partnership has fostered their incredible chemistry on the ice. It also aids their unmatched ability to communicate and evoke emotions through their performances.
Scott’s choreography, marked by complex footwork and lifts, has expanded ice dance limits. Together with Tessa, he introduced fresh elements and dance patterns that have transformed the discipline. Their routines have set new standards for artistic expression in ice dancing.
Patrick Chan
Famous Canadian figure skater from Ottawa

Patrick Chan is one of the most famous Asian Canadians. He has left an unforgettable impression on figure skating through his exceptional qualities. Patrick’s outstanding artistry on the ice is one of his signature characteristics. His performances capture audiences with elegance, smoothness, and a profound connection to music.
Patrick’s innate ability to express emotions and weave enthralling narratives through his routines elevates him beyond the technical elements of the sport. Coupled with his artistic mastery, he is a three-time World Figure Skating Champion. He firmly established his men’s figure skating reign by securing three back-to-back titles from 2011 to 2013.
Patrick’s accomplishments stretch into the Olympic realm, where he garnered two silver medals at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. As one of the most distinguished Asian Canadians, Patrick’s lasting legacy is etched by artistic ingenuity and technical breakthroughs. He leaves an inspirational impact on upcoming generations of figure skaters.
Elizabeth Manley
Famous Canadian figure skater from Belleville

Elizabeth Manley is cherished for her exceptional skating accomplishments. Her most triumphant moment transpired during the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Canada, as she seized the Olympic silver medal in women’s singles figure skating. This emblematic performance, engraved in the history of Canadian sports, displayed Elizabeth’s incredible talent and tenacity. Her memorable Black Swan routine, accompanied by Swan Lake melodies, is a testament to her emotive expression and technical mastery.
In addition to Olympic triumphs, Elizabeth’s heritage encompasses her Canadian national championship victory in 1985, underscoring her preeminence in her homeland. As a trailblazing female skater, she incorporated the triple Axel jump into her repertoire, becoming among the first to execute it reliably in contests. Elizabeth’s inclination to challenge sports limitations manifested in her technical aptitude and daring nature.
Jeffrey Buttle
Famous Canadian figure skater from Smooth Rock Falls

Jeffrey Buttle, the accomplished Canadian figure skater, is renowned for incredible qualities that shaped his lasting impact on the sport. In 2008, Jeffrey reached his career peak by becoming the World Figure Skating Champion. Buttle’s artistic brilliance, characterized by a distinctive fusion of grace, musicality, and evocative storytelling, sets him apart during his performances.
Jeffrey’s influence was also apparent in choreography, where he brought forth pioneering elements and imaginative concepts in his performances. Beyond his numerous accolades, Jeffrey’s legacy encompasses his coaching transition. He generously shares his expertise and passion for the sport with up-and-coming skaters.
Alaine Chartrand
Famous Canadian figure skater from Prescott

Alaine Chartrand has earned a prominent figure skating position through her exceptional qualities. As the Canadian national champion, Alaine’s remarkable abilities are evident in her home country, mirroring her unwavering commitment to excellence on the ice.
Recognized for her technical accuracy, Alaine’s performance in the demanding triple Lutz-triple toe loop combination jump distinguishes her as an adept and audacious athlete. Alaine’s captivating fusion of artistry and athleticism defines her performances. This earned her medals at numerous international events, reinforcing her status as a formidable Canadian figure skater.
In addition to her domestic triumphs, Alaine Chartrand’s accomplishments reach across global borders. As a former Junior Grand Prix victor, she refined her skills and accumulated invaluable experience among junior contenders before progressing to senior contests.
Kaetlyn Osmond
Famous Canadian figure skater from Newfoundland

Kaetlyn Osmond holds numerous impressive accomplishments that have cemented her place in sports history. Her Olympic journey reached a breathtaking climax at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. Kaetlyn Osmond secured the Olympic gold medal in the team event and the silver medal in women’s singles figure skating. Distinguished for her technical accuracy, Kaetlyn excelled at triple jumps, including the triple Lutz and triple flip.
Kaetlyn’s international performances have been consistent as a three-time World Figure Skating Championships medalist. Her gold medal victory in 2018, joined by prior silver and bronze medals, revealed her unwavering dedication to greatness. She etched an unforgettable legacy within Canada by capturing multiple Canadian national figure skating championship titles, further enriching her nation’s proud skating heritage.
Barbara Ann Scott
Legendary Canadian figure skater from Ottawa

Barbara Ann Scott is an extraordinary Canadian figure skater. She left a lasting impression on the sport through remarkable accomplishments. Her crowning achievement transpired at the 1948 Winter Olympics in St. Moritz, Switzerland, where she seized the gold medal in women’s singles figure skating. This historic Olympic triumph made her the first Canadian woman to achieve such a feat.
As a two-time World Figure Skating Champion in 1947 and 1948, Barbara Ann exuded unrivalled brilliance on the global stage. Her technical mastery and natural ability to engage with spectators rendered her a distinguished figure skater of her era. Barbara Ann Scott’s enterprising nature expanded to her inventive approach to jumps, most notably the triple Lutz, which she successfully integrated into her routines. Her eagerness to challenge what was considered feasible in women’s figure skating forged a path for future generations of skaters pursuing technical excellence.
Beyond her feats on ice, Barbara Ann Scott’s progression to a thriving professional skating career illustrated her continuing allure and magnetism. Her elegant performances in professional ice shows further endeared her to audiences worldwide. Additionally, as a cultural emissary for Canada, she represented her nation with dignity and pride. She conveyed Canadian customs and values during her international journeys and skating exhibitions. Barbara Ann Scott’s legacy stretches far beyond her medals. She remains a timeless symbol of excellence!
Brian Orser
Top Canadian figure skater from Belleville

Brian Orser’s career has been adorned with unique accomplishments. As an Olympic silver medalist at the 1984 Sarajevo Winter Olympics and the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, Orser exhibited extraordinary consistency. Delivering two consecutive Olympic silver medals highlights his lasting excellence.
Brian’s supremacy spread to the World Figure Skating Championships, winning twice in 1987 and 1989. His technical expertise is demonstrated through his groundbreaking role in perfecting the triple-axel jump, an achievement that expanded men’s figure skating horizons. His daring execution of this demanding jump revolutionized the sport and established new benchmarks for technical brilliance.
As a multi-time Canadian national champion, he displayed his proficiency within Canada’s skating community, adding to the country’s vibrant skating heritage. Brian’s contributions to figure skating transcended his competitive career. His thriving coaching career, guiding elite skaters like Yuzuru Hanyu, exemplifies his ongoing impact on the sport.
Kurt Browning
Famous Canadian figure skater from Alberta

Kurt Browning is Canada’s trailblazing figure skater. As a pioneer of the quadruple jump, he revolutionized men’s figure skating. Marking a turning point, Kurt’s successful execution of the quad-toe loop jump in competition established new benchmarks for technical prowess. He inspired a generation of skaters.
Crowned four-time World Figure Skating Champion in 1989, 1990, 1991, and 1993, Browning’s steadfastness and supremacy on the global stage reinforced his stature as one of the most remarkable figure skaters of his time. Kurt etched an everlasting mark in Canada by winning the Canadian national figure skating championship several times.
Upon retiring from competitive skating, Kurt Browning’s entrance into professional skating mesmerized audiences. His involvement in professional ice shows increased figure skating’s prominence as entertainment.
Meagan Duhamel
Famous Canadian figure skater from Sudbury

Meagan Duhamel’s career achievements are legendary. At the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, her Olympic saga culminated as she captured the bronze medal in pairs figure skating. Meagan’s outstanding performance on the Olympic platform showcased her capacity to thrive under extraordinary pressure, making her Olympic triumph a career-defining moment.
As a two-time World Figure Skating Champion in 2015 and 2016, Meagan Duhamel’s prowess in pairs figure skating cemented her status as one of the sport’s premier athletes. Her collaboration with Eric Radford led to a remarkable Grand Slam, winning all major competitions, including the Grand Prix Final, World Championships, and Olympic medals.
Meagan and Eric’s trailblazing spirit shone through their successful integration of quadruple throw jumps into their routines. In addition to her athletic feats, Meagan’s animal rights and veganism promotion sets her apart. She leverages her influence to bring attention to crucial societal issues.
Eric Radford
Famous Canadian figure skater from Balmertown

Eric Radford is a remarkable Canadian figure skater. His crowning moment came at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. Eric secured an Olympic gold medal, displaying exceptional skill and poise on the world’s most prestigious platform. Also, as a two-time World Figure Skating Champion in 2015 and 2016, no one doubted his outstanding abilities.
Partnered with Meagan Duhamel, the duo accomplished a fantastic Grand Slam, winning all major competitions, including the Grand Prix Final, World Championships, and Olympic medals. Central to this success was Eric’s technical expertise and artistic flair. Additionally, his trailblazing spirit shone through with the integration of quadruple throw jumps into their routines. They redefine the limits within pairs of figure skating.