Olympian Gus Kenworthy is Getting Threats After ICE Criticism

Gus Kenworthy has never been subtle. Whether it’s on skis, on television, or online, the Olympic freestyle skier has built a career—and a public identity—on doing things his own way. This week, Kenworthy once again reminded people exactly who he is, sharing a protest message that was impossible to ignore.

In a photo posted to Instagram and seen by more than a million followers, Kenworthy appeared on his skis, having written the words “fuck ice” directly onto the ice beneath him. The image was striking, provocative, and unmistakably Kenworthy. Some viewers jokingly speculated on how the message was written, prompting comments like “great pen(is)manship,” while others focused squarely on the political message behind it.

The image was paired with a detailed caption urging followers to call their senators and speak out against ICE during current Department of Homeland Security funding negotiations.

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A Direct Call to Action

Gus’ caption included a phone number—(202) 224-3121—and a sample script encouraging constituents to pressure senators to oppose any DHS funding agreement that does not rein in ICE and Border Patrol.

“Innocent people have been murdered, and enough is enough,” the caption read in part, calling for accountability, limits on warrantless arrests and profiling, and the removal of ICE and CBP from sensitive locations like schools and hospitals.

Rather than offering a vague political opinion, Kenworthy provided a clear action step, making it easy for followers to participate if they chose to. It was a move that aligned with how he has long used social media: not just to share personal milestones or sponsorships, but to amplify issues he believes demand attention.

Mixed Reactions, Loud Responses

The reaction in Kenworthy’s comments section was immediate—and divided.

Supportive comments poured in quickly:

• “Best picture I’ve seen so far.”

• “Don’t let them silence you. ICE out.”

• “I followed you when I heard you spoke out against ICE!!! Thank you.”

• “People threatening to unfollow you 😂 I’m sure you won’t miss them.”

But there was pushback too. Some followers announced their departure publicly:

• “Unfollowed.”

• “Should have stayed out of politics. I support even with your lifestyle but bye.”

As the comments grew more intense, the athlete’s supporters stepped in, defending him and pushing back against critics. The discussion escalated enough that comments on the post were eventually limited.

Addressing the Backlash

Shortly after, the Olympic freestyle skier addressed the situation directly, explaining that while many messages had been supportive, others had crossed into outright harassment.

@reuters

Team GB skier Gus Kenworthy said he has been receiving threats online ever since he posted a video to his social media criticizing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). #GusKenworthy #ICE #winterolympics #olympics #teamGB

♬ original sound – Reuters

He shared that he had received messages telling him to kill himself, threatening him, wishing injury on him during competition, and calling him slurs. Despite this, Kenworthy made it clear that speaking out was not incompatible with patriotism.

“I just want to remind everyone that you can love the U.S. and be proud to be American; I am, and still think it can be better,” he said.

He went on to be explicit about his stance: “I do not support ICE.” Kenworthy described the agency as “evil and awful and terrifying,” citing cases in which U.S. citizens have been killed and officers have acted with what he views as impunity.

Kenworthy’s Legacy Goes Beyond Medals

Long before being outspoken was expected—or even accepted—in action sports, Kenworthy was already changing the landscape. After winning silver in men’s slopestyle at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, he became a household name. A year later, in 2015, he came out publicly, becoming the first openly gay action sports star.

That moment reshaped visibility in winter sports. Kenworthy wasn’t just competing; he was showing queer athletes that there was room for them at the highest levels of competition. His later Olympic appearances in PyeongChang and Beijing continued that visibility, blending elite athleticism with unapologetic authenticity.

Though Kenworthy briefly retired, the pause didn’t last long. He’s now set to return to Olympic competition at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, bringing his career—and his voice—full circle.

Using the Voice You Have

Kenworthy’s latest post reinforces something his career has consistently shown: visibility carries weight. Speaking out comes with consequences, but also with impact. Whether people agree with him or not, the conversation he sparked extended far beyond a single Instagram post.

If there’s one takeaway from Kenworthy’s moment on the ice, it’s this: using your voice—especially when it’s loud, visible, and inconvenient—is often the point.