In the heart of Harlem, where the streets echo with history and resilience, a group of young girls is carving their own path—on ice. Figure Skating in Harlem (FSH) is more than just an after-school program; it’s a revolution on skates, giving young girls of color the chance to glide, twirl, and shatter stereotypes in a sport that has long lacked diversity.

Now, their inspiring journey is getting the spotlight it deserves in Disney+’s new docuseries, “Harlem Ice”, produced by none other than Robin Roberts, Ron Howard, and Brian Grazer. The five-part series, premiering on February 12, 2025, takes viewers behind the scenes of these young skaters’ world—showcasing their dedication, struggles, triumphs, and the unbreakable bond they share both on and off the ice.

Breaking the Ice Ceiling

FSH isn’t just about landing the perfect axel (though that’s pretty cool, too); it’s about empowerment, education, and leadership. Founded in 1997, the program provides academic tutoring, leadership training, and life skills coaching alongside world-class figure skating instruction. For these girls, skating is more than a sport—it’s a gateway to confidence and opportunity.

In a sport where representation has historically been scarce, FSH is changing the game. Many of these skaters come from communities where access to ice sports is limited due to cost and systemic barriers. But through scholarships, mentorship, and sheer determination, these young athletes are proving that the ice belongs to everyone.

Lights, Camera, Triple Lutz!

“Harlem Ice” captures the highs and lows of competitive skating—the grueling early morning practices, the pressure of performances, and the joy of nailing that perfect spin. But it also dives deeper, exploring how these girls navigate their identities, ambitions, and the expectations placed upon them in a predominantly white sport.

“We’ve always been told that figure skating wasn’t for girls like us,” one skater reflects in the trailer. “But out here on the ice, we prove that we belong.”

The docuseries shines a light on the coaches, mentors, and families who support these young athletes, showing that success isn’t just about individual talent—it’s about community, perseverance, and the courage to dream big.

Representation That Inspires

FSH alumni have gone on to Ivy League schools, successful careers, and even coaching roles, continuing the cycle of representation and empowerment. Their journey is proof that when young Black and Brown girls are given access to opportunities, they don’t just take part—they dominate.

By showcasing their stories on a global stage, “Harlem Ice” is more than a series—it’s a movement. It’s a reminder that the next generation of figure skating champions won’t just be seen on Olympic podiums but in classrooms, boardrooms, and communities around the world.

Watch & Cheer Them On!

Set your reminders—“Harlem Ice” premieres on Disney+ on February 12, 2025. Whether you’re a skating fan or just love a good underdog story, this is a series you won’t want to miss.

And who knows? The next time you step into an ice rink, you might just see the future of figure skating spinning, gliding, and rewriting history—one jump at a time.

Buddy’s Take

“Finally, a skating show where the drama isn’t just about toe picks and sequins! These girls are out here making history, proving that the ice doesn’t belong to one shade—it’s for everyone. Can we also talk about how cold ice rinks are, though? Someone get me a heated jacket before I turn into a popsicle.”