In a new twist, Olympic gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik has taken up the role of “big brother” to his *Dancing with the Stars* partner, Rylee Arnold. Since winning the Olympic bronze medal in Paris, Nedoroscik decided to test his rhythm on the dance floor, and in Arnold, he found not just a dedicated coach but a friend. With her guidance, he transformed from gymnast to dancer, making waves with their impressive debut on September 17, performing to Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now.”
Their on-screen chemistry and unforgettable performances quickly gained fans, with some even drawing comparisons between Nedoroscik and ‘Clark Kent.’ As their friendship grew, Arnold began seeking Nedoroscik’s opinion on a personal matter—her budding romance with NFL prospect Walker Lyons. This connection reached new heights when they went on a double date to *Wicked* with their respective partners, Tess McCracken and Lyons. Playfully, Arnold sought Nedoroscik’s “stamp of approval” on her relationship, humorously asking, “I need Stephen’s stamp of approval, don’t I?”
Reflecting on the double date, Nedoroscik shared his thoughts in a heartwarming exchange with *ExtraTV.* He spoke fondly of Lyons, stating, “It was a blast going on that double date with Walker. We did the 45-minute ride together, just talking the whole time. He’s just a really good dude, and I completely approve. It’s good. Keep this guy in your life.” With his approval, Arnold now feels confident moving forward in her relationship with Lyons, buoyed by Nedoroscik’s support.
Beyond his newfound role as Arnold’s confidant, Nedoroscik has been grappling with the surreal experience of his transformation into a *DWTS* star. Despite his successes, he recently opened up about the insecurities that once haunted him, especially when it came to dancing. During a guest appearance on *Mythical Kitchen* with Josh Scherer, Nedoroscik revealed a lesser-known side, sharing how he used to avoid the dance floor entirely. “I’m a very cowardly and scared dancer,” he admitted. “Getting on *Dancing with the Stars*… I never would’ve thought. When I’m at the club, I’m usually in the corner.”
Nedoroscik’s humility and openness have only endeared him further to fans. Reflecting on his remarkable journey from an “average gymnast” to a household name, he admitted, “I never would have imagined I’d be watched by millions of people dancing. Seriously, not in a million years would I have thought I’d find myself in these situations. But the thing is, as long as you go a hundred percent, you won’t ever really look stupid.”
With every performance, Stephen Nedoroscik continues to challenge his insecurities and redefine his limits. As he eyes the *DWTS* Mirrorball Trophy, it’s clear he’s not just competing—he’s on a path of self-discovery, each step bolder than the last.