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Mary Lou Retton is finest recognized for being a history-making Olympian. From the fitness center mat to the medals, her expertise was well known.
In Could 2025, she made headlines for being arrested for a DUI. In response to a number of shops, she was charged with “driving drunk, managed substances, or medicine.”
Get to know extra about this fierce competitor who’s assured to present the opposite contestants a severe run for his or her cash!
She made Olympic historical past
Mary Lou Retton received a gold medal within the particular person all-around competitors, in addition to two silver medals and two bronze medals, within the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles. It was the primary time the Summer time Olympics have been held in the US in 52 years, and Mary Lou was the primary ever American lady to win the all-around gold medal and was the one one to take action for twenty years–till Carly Patterson in 2004’s Olympic video games in Athens. After her report breaking Olympic efficiency, she grew to become generally known as probably the most fashionable athletes in America. She retired in 1986.
She’s a sweetheart and a spitfire
Mary Lou is thought for her exuberant persona and heart-warming smile and is a fireball wrapped in a 4’9″ body! She grew to become Wheaties’ first official spokeswoman and Sports activities Illustrated named her “Sportswoman of the 12 months,” in 1984. Followers all over the place fell in love with Mary Lou’s pep, and it’s not arduous to see why. “I might sleep in my leotard on Friday nights as a result of I used to be so enthusiastic about gymnastics on Saturday mornings,” she mentioned in a previous interview.
She is a religious Catholic
Mary Lou credit her intense religion for serving to her in her profession. “I wouldn’t be the place I’m in the present day with out my relationship with God,” she mentioned in a previous interview. “My relationship with Jesus Christ is a lot stronger now, however then, I imply, I knew He gave me expertise and I knew that He introduced Bela Karolyi into my life to convey that expertise out. I give Him all of the glory.”
She has 4 children
Mary Lou is a mother to 4 ladies Shayla Rae Kelley, 23, McKenna Lane Kelley, 21, Skyla Brae Kelley, 18, and Emma Jean Kelley, 16, all of whom are athletes. Daughter, McKenna is following in her mother’s footsteps and pursuing gymnastics. Whereas stress fractures in her legs prevented her from competing nationally, she ended up competing on the faculty stage at LSU, the place she attends.
She’s able to convey residence the Mirrorball trophy!
Mary Lou is not any stranger to competitors and nonetheless stays extremely match–she is presently a motivational speaker and company spokesperson who travels the world as a “Health Ambassador.” DWTS companion, Sasha Farber, is understandably thrilled to be paired together with her. “Yessssss I can lastly say it!!! I’m so excited to be partnered with the one and solely @marylouretton she is an absolute legend and is working so arduous I can’t look forward to you all to see her dance !!! @dancingabc,” he captioned a Sept. 12, submit. Good luck, guys!
