Christopher Bowman lands a rare triple axel on his way to victory at Skate America 1988. He would beat out his American rivals Daniel Doran (silver) and Todd Eldredge (bronze) in the process.

Former U.S. men’s figure skating champion Christopher Bowman, known as “Bowman the Showman” for his flamboyant personality on the ice and his oft-troubled life off it, died Thursday of a possible drug overdose in North Hills, Calif.

Christopher Bowman was born in Hollywood, California on March 30, 1967. He is also known internationally as “Bowman the Showman.” As a skater, Christopher became one of the most electric, mesmerizing men’s singles skaters in history. For ten years he was in the spotlight of United States and World figure skating as a 2 time United States National Champion and the winner of 5 United States National Championship Medals and 2 World Championship Medals as well as being a former Junior Worlds Champion and 2 time United States Winter Olympic Team Member. Even though he is one of the most controversial athletes in American skating history, he had the biggest fan base of all National Winter Olympians.

He was a child actor starring in commercials, movies and television shows. He is most often remembered for his portrayal of Benjamin in the popular television series “Little House on the Prairie.” After a very successful competitive skating career, Christopher has once again found himself at home in front of a camera as he has embarked on a natural career of television commentating. Today, Chris is still a fun-loving guy and serious about his sport. He is now a well known coach, choreographer and sports commentator.