I don't know about Russia, but don't think that most people in Canada would recognize current figure skating stars. And SFAIK, skaters are more broadly popular in Russia than in Canada.
Even though Tessa's and Scott's Moulin Rouge was re-broadcast after they won OG and it was a big item on the news, that was a year ago. Casual or non-skating fans who just saw the program once won't remember what they looked like, probably don't even remember their names.
And if previous stars like Stokjo or Chan walked through the downtown of any major Canadian town or city, I don't think they would be recognized by a lot of people - though skaters who come from small communities usually do have a lot of recognition in those communities.
I don't think this state of affairs is sad. Figure skating does have a small group of enthusiasts or serious fans. I prefer to say small rather than tiny.
Figure skating stars just aren't Wayne Gretzky - most Canadians would recognize him, I would think.
Also, figure skating has a larger fan base than some other sports. I would think a major figure skating competition would attract a larger audience than a major track and field meet or a major volleyball competition.