http://sports.yahoo.com/tara-lipinski-johnny-weir-outfit-slideshow-wp-012544948.html

==============================

Although I certainly don't revel in his flamboyant fashion and presentation, I must give props where props are do. Weir is a very talented and well researched broadcaster and analyst for his particular sport. I'm not a fan of figure skating or any of it's many disciplines, but I've always been an Olympics junkie and will watch almost all of the various sports. I feel I can donate two weeks of my time every four years to appreciate the hard work and sacrifice these largely unknown athletes make.

Anyway, in between watching the winter sports I enjoy more (skiing, snowboarding, and sliding) I've caught enough of the figure skating coverage to tell you Weir is quite good. He supplements the lead play-by-play broadcaster with the appropriate amount and level of commentary (the anti Dan Dakich) and picks his spots well. He is extremely thorough and researched in knowing every skater/pair and their individual programs, American and abroad. He is fairly measured in his enthusiasm (anti Dick Vitale) for the highlights, and not afraid to offer sound criticism when warranted. In short, he compliments the broadcasting coverage very professionally.

The casual observer would think Weir is on NBC's broadcast team based solely on his appearance and the publicity his eccentricities garner, but in actuality he's there because he's earned it with skill and hard work.