Olympic figure skater Alysa Liu recently made headlines as she announced a significant change to her program music amidst an ongoing investigation involving the singer d4vd. The 2025 World Champion initially revealed her intention to compete to the song “This Is How It Feels” by d4vd and Laufey, but has now decided to take a different direction amid the unfolding events. Liu took to Instagram on Wednesday, September 24th, to share the news with her fans, expressing her team’s commitment to aligning her program with her values and overall ethos. She emphasised the importance of allowing her creative process to unfold organically without feeling rushed, hinting at potential familiar programs in the meantime.
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The California-native had previously set her sights on skating her short program to “This Is How It Feels” leading up to the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics. The abrupt change comes following a tragic incident where a 15-year-old girl was found deceased in the car of the singer d4vd. After the discovery on September 8th, authorities executed a search warrant at a property linked to the 20-year-old singer, whose real name is David Anthony Burke. The investigation, pertaining to the death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, has triggered a shift in Liu’s program music choice and prompted her to pursue an alternative direction in her performance.
Despite the unfolding events surrounding the investigation, d4vd has remained silent on the matter publicly. However, his representative assured that he is cooperating fully with the authorities. The singer was in the midst of his Withered World Tour in North America when Hernandez’s body was discovered in his vehicle, raising significant concerns and prompting a closer examination of the circumstances. As Liu navigates this unforeseen change in her program music, her supporters continue to rally behind her, acknowledging her dedication and resilience in the face of challenges.
Liu’s return to competitive skating in March 2024 marked a remarkable comeback after stepping away from the sport following her participation in the 2022 Beijing Olympics and the subsequent World Championships. The talented skater’s perseverance and hard work culminated in her historic win at the World Figure Skating Championships, making her the first American woman to achieve this feat in 19 years. Her journey back to the sport was met with initial challenges, but Liu’s determination and passion shone through as she continued to push boundaries and make a triumphant return to the ice.
As the figure skating community awaits Liu’s next move and eagerly anticipates her future performances, the talented athlete remains focused on her craft and determined to showcase her skills on the international stage. The support and encouragement from fans and fellow skaters serve as a source of strength for Liu as she navigates the ever-evolving landscape of competitive figure skating. Amidst the uncertainty and change, Liu’s unwavering commitment to her artistry and values shines through, setting the stage for an exciting chapter in her career and inspiring fans around the world.