Daniel Radcliffe and Alysa Liu: A Meeting of Champions
It’s rare to witness a meeting where both individuals are equally thrilled, but that’s exactly what happened when Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu and actor Daniel Radcliffe crossed paths. The encounter, captured backstage at TODAY, was a delightful moment for fans and a testament to the mutual admiration between two icons.
The heartwarming exchange unfolded on Monday, March 2nd, during their respective appearances on the TODAY show. As Radcliffe approached Liu, her initial reaction – a disbelieving “What the…” – perfectly encapsulated the surprise and excitement of the moment. The two shared a warm embrace, beaming from ear to ear, making it difficult to discern who was more starstruck.
Alysa Liu celebrates her gold medal win at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.
A Mutual Fan Moment
Radcliffe repeatedly pointed at Liu’s gold medal, offering a high-five and even snapping a selfie with the champion. Liu’s genuine reaction – an enthusiastic “Oh my Lord!” – spoke volumes. But it wasn’t just Liu who was excited; Radcliffe appeared to be channeling his inner child, completely fanboying over the opportunity to meet the Olympic skater.
Fans online echoed the sentiment, with one commenter noting, “This is great! I love how genuinely happy and excited they are to meet each other.” The video quickly went viral, showcasing the pure joy of this unexpected encounter.
Catching Up with the Stars
Currently, fans can enjoy Radcliffe in his role opposite Tracy Morgan in The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins, airing every Monday night at 8:30/7:30c on NBC. This role showcases his versatility beyond the beloved Harry Potter series, where he first captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Learn more about the show here.
Liu, meanwhile, secured her gold medal in women’s figure skating on February 19th, completing a stunning performance in the free skate at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. During her appearance on TODAY, she shared her gratitude for the overwhelming support she’s received.
“I think so – I’ve been getting so much more love, too, it’s just… continuing,” Liu explained. “So I don’t know, it’s a lot. But I’m really grateful.” She also revealed her technique for staying calm during competitions: focusing on her breathing and embracing the energy of the audience.
For those who missed it, you can catch up on the latest season of your favorite shows, watch live TV, and stream movies on the NBC App.
More on Alysa Liu
Beyond her Olympic success, Liu has also gained attention for her unique style, including her self-administered frenulum piercing. Her authenticity and down-to-earth personality have resonated with fans, making her a role model for aspiring athletes.
This meeting between Daniel Radcliffe and Alysa Liu is a reminder that even the most celebrated individuals can experience the thrill of meeting their idols. It’s a heartwarming moment that celebrates talent, passion, and the power of shared admiration.
