Stephen Nedoroscik has a reputation that precedes him. He is the pommel horse wizard who helped Team USA flip the script at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The 26-year-old from Worcester, Massachusetts, clinched a bronze medal in the men’s team event—Team USA’s first since 2008—and snagged an individual bronze on pommel horse, dazzling with his precision and flair. Known for his “Clark Kent” vibe, shedding his glasses before routines, Nedoroscik became a viral sensation, solving a Rubik’s Cube in under 10 seconds while waiting to compete. His Olympic heroics, paired with his infectious charisma, have made him a breakout star. But what happens when an athlete’s stardom transcends the gym?
Enter the Critics Choice Awards, where Nedoroscik just landed a jaw-dropping nomination for Male Star of the Year, announced in early 2025. The Seventh Critics Choice Real TV Awards, honor the best in film, TV, and now, crossover stars like Nedoroscik, who’s rubbing elbows with Hollywood’s elite- such as Stanley Tucci and Jonathan Bennett. The nomination, tied to his post-Olympic fame, aka his appearance in DWTS as a participant and a host, underscores his appeal beyond the chalk-dusted mats. So, how did Nedoroscik react to this unexpected honor?
One word: “UNREAL.” That’s what Nedoroscik posted on his Instagram story, in response to the nomination news. The single-word caption, paired with the announcement that the gymnast reposted from Critics Choice Real TV’s official Instagram account, screamed surprise and humility. For a guy who’s stayed grounded despite global fame, this reaction feels authentic, a nod to his roots as a Penn State electrical engineering grad who never expected to be an awards-season contender. But how did Nedoroscik go from flipping on pommel horses to stealing the spotlight?
From Paris to DWTS glory: The Stephen Nedoroscik way!
Post-Paris 2024, Nedoroscik’s fame skyrocketed faster than a Simone Biles vault. His Instagram following ballooned to over 721,000, with fans eating up his mix of gym clips, Rubik’s Cube flexes, and behind-the-scenes charm. The Olympics made him a meme—affectionately dubbed the “pommel horse guy”, but his personality turned him into a movement. He’s vocal about reviving men’s gymnastics, a sport he’s called “dying” due to low participation, and his visibility is a spark for change. Yet, it’s his next act that truly broadened his fanbase. What’s that act, you ask?
Cue Dancing with the Stars. In fall 2024, Nedoroscik joined the 33rd season, paired with pro Rylee Arnold. The gymnast traded singlets for sequins, wowing audiences with his rhythm and stage presence, earning scores as high as 36/40 for his quickstep. He finished fourth, but his impact lingered—fans on X raved about his chemistry with Arnold and his knack for stealing scenes. By January 2025, he was named co-host for the DWTS Live 2025 tour. From Olympic podiums to dance floors to awards nominations, and even some chess in between, Nedoroscik’s journey is a masterclass in versatility. So, what’s next for this gymnast-turned-entertainer?
The post Stephen Nedoroscik Left Stunned as Gymnast Drops 1-Word Reaction to Being Nominated for Major Honor appeared first on EssentiallySports.
