In an interview with In Touch, notorious figure skater Tonya Harding says she is grateful to be back in the spotlight – in a good way. Last year the biopic I, Tonya was released to critical acclaim and three Oscar nominations — propelling her into the headlines again. And this time, people saw a different side to the story.

“I’m actually getting respect. I haven’t had that for a very long time,” says the 47-year-old, who’s getting a second chance at winning America over, this time with partner Sasha Farber on Dancing With the Stars. Although she says she doesn’t know much about dancing, she is eager to learn.

tonya harding dancing with the stars

“I know some basics, 
but not really [anything]! Sasha gets to teach me everything. Skating didn’t help me in anyway.”

“I’ve always wanted to be on the 
show, but I knew it would probably not be possible because you have to be nominated. But now, to be asked to be on the show, it’s such an honor,” Tonya tells In Touch.

And as far as her plans for the competition, she says: “[I’m] just going up against myself and wanting to be the best that I can be, seeing how far I can push it.”

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