Daniel Radcliffe, Alysa Liu’s wholesome meet-up takes over social media
The ‘Harry Potter’ star meets two-time Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu
Daniel Radcliffe and Olympic figure skating star Alysa Liu shared a heartwarming backstage moment, winning over fans’ hearts.
On Monday, March 2, the 36-year-old English actor and the 20-year-old American athlete were all smiles when they crossed paths backstage at the Today show.
In the now-viral footage shared by the morning program, Liu appeared surprised and visibly excited when Radcliffe entered the room and greeted her with a big hug.
After exchanging warm embraces, the Harry Potter star gave the gold medalist a high five before the pair snapped a few selfies together on his phone.
"Oh my lord," Liu said at one point.
She also offered to let Radcliffe try on her gold medal for their photos. "I wasn’t going to ask," he said, ultimately deciding not to put it on, joking that "it feels like stolen valor."
Praising Liu for her victory, the Now You See Me 2 actor said, "You being you was the most joyful thing I’ve watched," referring to her gold medal–winning performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.
Fans’ reactions
Shortly after the clip took over the internet, fans flooded the comments section to express their joy over the unexpected crossover.
"The fact that he’s just as excited to meet her…," one fan wrote.
Another remarked, "Bro’s always on side quests and we love him for it," while a third added, "Wizard meets figure skater."
What did Alysa Liu win at the 2026 Winter Olympics?
Liu, who retired from figure skating in 2022 before rediscovering her passion for the sport in 2024, won two gold medals at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
She claimed gold in the free skate on February 19 with her performance to MacArthur Park by Donna Summer, after previously winning gold in the team event on February 8.
Alysa Liu’s message to fans after Olympic win
Following her major victory, Liu reflected on her journey and advised fans not to be afraid of taking breaks when needed.
"I wouldn't tell anyone to force their joy in something they don't actually like. I actually really enjoy the sport, and I don't know, it just comes naturally and it's really fun, spinning and stuff, gliding on the ice," she told PEOPLE.
"Taking breaks is okay. Sometimes, taking a step back is what's needed to see the full picture," Liu added.