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Filed under: Health, Sports
Sat. January 12, 2008 6:57:52 PM
Los Angeles, CA — Two-time national champion and world Medalist Christopher Bowman was found dead this weekend inside a North Hills motel just outside of Los Angeles. Authorities suggest that the cause was an apparent drug overdose.
Born in Hollywood, CA, Bowman captivated audiences with his extreme performances and his edgy style for years before taking home his first national title in 1989.
Dubbed "Bowman the Showman" for his captivating audience appeal, he proved his talent in 1990 when an improvised program catapulted him to the podium at the World Championships.
After a fourth place finish at the 1992 Olympic Games, Bowman retired to pursue an acting career and to perform with the now defunct Ice Capades.
Off the ice, Bowman struggled with drug addiction and admitted in an interview with sports commentator Christine Brennan that he at one time had a $1000-a-day cocaine addiction.
Recently the Detroit Free Press reported the now 40-year-old Bowman has had several run-ins with the law, including charges of felonious assault and aiming a firearm with malice at his girlfriend, and a 2005 sentence of 18 months probation for a misdemeanor involving having a gun while drunk.
Bowman's body was found in a motel early Friday afternoon, and he was pronounced dead on the scene. His death seems to be the result of a cocaine overdose, according to media reports, but an autopsy is planned for later this weekend.
U.S. Figure Skating president Ron Hershberger told the Detroit Free Press, "U.S. Figure Skating was extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Christopher Bowman. He was an exceptionally talented skater and his friends throughout the skating community will always remember the special gifts he shared with us. Our thoughts are with Christopher's family during this difficult time as they deal with this tragic loss."
Bowman is survived by his ex-wife Annette and their daughter.
Written By Dylan Vox
Article provided in partnership with GayWebMonkey.com.
Izzy on Tuesday, 1/22/2008
Wow, what a shame. I still have his performance from the US Figure Skating championships where he wrecked his knee and continued to skate nonetheless. A true showman/sportsman.