The most beloved Russian/Ukraine skater(s) ...

[mike79]

G&G, without a doubt.

 

[LilyBerg]

Alexei Yagudin

/Lily

 

[VIETgrlTerifa]

I voted before I read the whole question. I thougt it was who made the most impace personally, so I voted Berezhnaya/Sikharludize, but for all of N. America...I would have to say G/G, but in about 10 years I bet it will be Alexei and G/G won't be as known with the new generation of skating fans.

 

[lulu]

My Vote would have to go to Gordeeva and Grinkov.
Think about it: My Sergei TV-Movie, Snowden on Ice, Target Fragences, 2 Enormous Websites (A Kind of Magic/Su-Jan's site).
Although (as tacky as it sounds) their popularity increased after Sergei died, even back in the 1980s-before the USSR collasped 'Ol nationalist Dick Button was gushing about them. Katia was (IMO) that Olga Korbut of figure skating. She just drew people in.


Although, most non-skating fans seemed to be drawn to them primarily because of their story-and that is unfair beacuse they were(and Katia is) really excellent technicians.

 

[Excidra2001]

I don't think it's a surprise who I voted for but if anyone still wants to know. Irina got my vote.
The American audience are familar with her and at times does get a standing O from them. You know your popular(talking about skaters) in the states when Tom Collin signs you to a long term deal with his management company and tour.

 

[Antilles]

I agree that G&G are more well known and beloved for theit story. Alexei probably second. I think if you mentioned these names to non-skating fans, you'd find more who know his name.

 

[Norlite]

I said G&G, but agree with whoever said that in time, Yagudin will take over, as a new generation without the memories take over.

 

[Sadie]

I love both Alexei and Ekaterina + Sergei. But since Alexei is still competing, I had to vote for him. I also love Viktor Petrenko.

 

[Ice Princess]

The most beloved Russian/Ukraine skater(s)

I love them all, but my top vote was for G&G-they were so awesome!

 

[Kasey]

I totally love Alexei...but how can you vote against Katia Gordeeva???

 

[BronzeisGolden]

G&G for sure, for the reasons everyone has stated. Yagudin is also infinitely popular here (and with good reason!). I'd also have to say Oksana's legacy isn't completely tarnished. She became enormously popular after Lillehammer and I don't think that will ever completely fade away as some have suggested.