Gymnast and social media star Olivia Dunne faced a frightening incident in January 2023 that led Louisiana State University to employ security at future events. During a gymnastics meet at the University of Utah, Dunne’s teenage fans disrupted the event by loudly cheering for her. This behavior caused discomfort not only for Dunne but also for other competitors. The situation escalated after the competition, with the same fans waiting outside, demanding to see Dunne. Police had to intervene to prevent any unauthorized entry into the arena, prompting LSU to take action immediately.
Following the disruptive incident, LSU quickly implemented enhanced security measures. Dunne disclosed in an interview with “Today” that a new security personnel now accompanies the team to events. Additionally, new guidelines were put in place for competing gymnasts, which included avoiding the stands before and after competitions. Despite the unsettling situation, Dunne later reported a decrease in issues, although the lack of opportunities due to the end of the season at the University of Utah may have contributed to this trend.
LSU hired security immediately after the incident

Following the scary episode at the University of Utah, Olivia Dunne and her coach Jay Clark informed “Today” of the swift implementation of new security measures. A dedicated security staff now travels with the team, and additional rules have been enforced for the safety of the gymnasts during competitions. Concerns about safety had been lingering even before the incident, with Clark attributing the heightened risks to social media’s effects on accessibility and familiarity. As the 2023 season concluded without major incidents, Dunne’s reduced participation in the 2024 season was associated more with her influencer commitments than security concerns.
Olivia’s coach believed social media put the team at risk

Coach Jay Clark expressed concerns about the team’s safety, especially regarding the influence of social media prior to the disruptive incident. He highlighted the potential dangers arising from a perceived sense of closeness facilitated by online platforms. While acknowledging the benefits of Dunne’s online following, Clark defended her against unwarranted criticism, emphasizing the importance of consistency in valuing self-expression. Despite challenges, Dunne’s successful career is a testament to her talent and resilience, as she navigates the complexities of fame and fan interactions.