I think Joubert has had quite a few sequences that were more of the "inspired by" variety rather than imitations. The similarity was more pronounced earlier in his career, though I'll allow there are bits in his Rise SP this year that are very Yagudin-like.Jourbert has never kept it a secret that he not only admires Yags, but that he has no problem mimicking the Champion...
it was VERY apparent after 2002 that Jourbert was outright copying Yags in look and skating, unfortunately Brian just doesn't get artistry quite like Alexei.
of this season or all time?
all time - Browning.
I'm pretty sure he wasn't the first, and he definitely wasn't the last. Plushenko got level 4 at Torino (SP and LP, for the circular steps), Jeffrey Buttle definitely got level 4 at some point (2008 4CC?), and Carolina Kostner among the ladies. Not sure who else. I also don't know if that should be the criteria for judging excellence in step sequences; levels are really more about excellence in adhering to a checklist (just like so-so spinners would sometimes beat Stephane Lambiel on spin levels).Takahashi!!!
I'm surprised he's not on the list. Wasn't he the first person to get a level four on footwork?
I am probably the only figure skating fan on the planet who did not like that program. But let's not go there - this is a positive thread .Takahashi, particularly his sequence in his techno-Swan Lake SP last year. And I believe he was the first guy to get level 4 - at least that's what the commentator said. That would not, of course, included nationals.