adrietine:

In all honesty, the reason I’m quite familiar with some figure skaters is because of Yuri on Ice. One of those skaters is Denis Ten. I was clueless to who he was before YOI. Immediately after Otabek’s introduction to the series, I looked up into Denis’ profile and watched his videos as I did with the other skaters who were the inspiration for YOI skaters. Such powerful performances this young man had. He was full of determination and passion for figure skating. And he proudly showed and introduced his country to the world.

Then he became an inspiration for Kubo to create Otabek. A character that I’ve come to love so very much. A character who is full of determination and passion for his sport, and above all, a deep love and pride for his country. Just like his real-life counterpart.

I’m really affected by his passing as a YOI fan. If it weren’t for his unique traits as an athlete and as a person, the YOI fandom wouldn’t have an Otabek Altin today.

Rest in peace Denis Ten, the real Hero of Kazakhstan.