Legendary ice skater ‘Mr. Debonair’ reflects on career, life at 90

Richard Dwyer, a legendary figure skater who became known to fans as ‘Mr. Debonair,’ celebrated his 90th birthday Nov. 18, with a party held Nov. 23. Dwyer, seen Nov. 22 at the home of family friend Brenda Berg, lived on Paradise Drive in the 1960s and has maintained a presence on Ridge Road since 1973. (Francisco Martinez / The Ark)

For over 60 years, Richard Dwyer donned a tuxedo and top hat, skated onto the ice accompanied by a line of performers known as “The Dwyer Girls” and handed roses to audience members in arenas around the world.

The act made him a legend. Olympic champions grew up with his poster on their walls. A president and a governor honored him. Charles M. Schulz name-dropped him in “Peanuts” — twice. He was inducted into the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame.

Now 90, the part-time Tiburon resident known as “Mr. Debonair” still laces up his skates several times a week, gliding forward and backward with practiced turns for a half-hour at a time. He gave up jumps two years ago, but he’s not ready to give up the ice.

Dwyer celebrated his birthday Nov. 18 with a party in town Nov. 23. A birthday video shared with The Ark featured Olympic figure-skating champions Scott Hamilton and Brian Boitano honoring his legacy.

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