US Figure Skater Amber Glenn Faces Backlash Over Politics and Copyright Issues After Olympic Gold

Canadian artist claims Glenn used his song without permission, sparking a copyright debate as Glenn deals with social media criticism over her comments on politics and LGBTQ+ issues.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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American figure skater Amber Glenn won Olympic gold as part of the team event, but has faced backlash over her comments on politics and the LGBTQ+ community. On the same day, Canadian artist Seb McKinnon, who produces music under the name CLANN, claimed Glenn used his song 'The Return' in her free skate routine without permission, sparking a copyright debate. Figure skaters are required to obtain permission for the music they use, but the process is complex. Glenn was not available for comment on the music issue, as she planned to take the day off from training and depart Milan to practice elsewhere ahead of the individual women's event.

Why it matters

The copyright issue highlights the growing tensions between artists and figure skaters over the use of copyrighted music in routines. While the International Skating Union has tried to develop systems to help skaters avoid copyright infringement claims, the process remains complex and murky. Additionally, Glenn's comments on politics and LGBTQ+ issues have sparked backlash on social media, underscoring the challenges athletes face in navigating sensitive topics.

The details

Canadian artist Seb McKinnon, who produces music under the name CLANN, took to social media to object to the use of his song 'The Return' in Glenn's free skate routine, which she has been using for the past two years without issue. Figure skaters are required to obtain permission for the music they use, but the process is hardly straightforward, with multiple parties often involved in the copyright ownership. According to McKinnon, he alone has the right to give permission to license his music, and he said he would be looking into the situation.

  • On the same day Amber Glenn won Olympic gold as part of the team event, the copyright issue arose.
  • Glenn planned to take the day off from training on Monday and then depart Milan to practice elsewhere ahead of the individual women's event, which begins on February 17 with the short program.

The players

Amber Glenn

An American figure skater who won Olympic gold as part of the team event, but has faced backlash over her comments on politics and the LGBTQ+ community.

Seb McKinnon

A Canadian artist who produces music under the name CLANN and claimed that Glenn used his song 'The Return' in her free skate routine without permission.

U.S. Figure Skating

The governing body for figure skating in the United States, which has tried to help its skaters avoid copyright claims.

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What they’re saying

“So just found out an Olympic figure skater used one of my songs without permission for their routine. It aired all over the world ... what? Is that usual practice for the Olympics?”

— Seb McKinnon, Canadian artist (X)

“And plus she won Gold??? Huge congratz.”

— Seb McKinnon, Canadian artist (X)

“I was disappointed because I've never had so many people wish me harm before, just for being me and speaking about being decent — human rights and decency.”

— Amber Glenn (The Associated Press)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.