Four years ago after arriving late for his long program at the Turin Olympics, figure skater Johnny Weir said he’d never stay in an Olympic Village again. Instead, he’d go to a hotel.
In Vancouver, he’s back in the village. For one reason.
“What changed my mind were the fur people,” said Weir, who has worn white fox fur in his costumes. “[The lack of] security in a hotel would make it difficult. There have been threats against me, threats to harm me personally. I don’t want to get hurt.”
Weir was asked why he wears animal fur when many advocates believe it’s cruel to animals.
“I understand anti-fur advocates and where they’re coming from, but I like wearing fur from dead animals,” Weir said. “We wear leather skates made from dead cows. We all do. It’s easy to put your concerns against an athlete going to the Olympics. It’s instant publicity.”
