Laurie Hernandez

Laurie Hernandez is an Olympic gold medalist in gymnastics who has transitioned into media, hosting, and writing, sharing her experiences and inspiring others. After being named to the ‘Final Five’ U.S. Olympic team and securing both a team gold medal and an individual silver medal on the balance beam at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympics, Laurie Hernandez went on to expand her career into media, hosting, and writing. Her competitive gymnastics career began at the junior level in 2012, earning a bronze medal in the all-around at the National Qualifier.

Championships, also claiming gold medals on uneven bars and floor exercise. In 2016, she made her senior debut, contributing to team gold medals at the City of Jesolo Trophy and the Pacific Rim Gymnastics Championships, while also placing third in the all-around at the U.S. Championships and second at the Olympic trials. Following her monumental Olympic success, Hernandez appeared on and won ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Season 23 in 2016, becoming the show’s youngest champion.

She continued her impactful career in media, serving as a commentator for NBC’s Olympic gymnastics coverage for both the 2020 and 2024 Games. In 2025, Laurie Hernandez was awarded a Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Live Special – Championship Event, solidifying her respected position within the broadcast industry. She continues to inspire audiences through her various roles in media, hosting, and writing.