As someone who has grown up watching Don Cherry’s fiery commentary on Hockey Night in Canada, I was taken aback by the sudden turn of events that led to his departure from Sportsnet. Cherry was more than just a hockey analyst; he was a cultural icon, a part of the fabric of Canadian sports broadcasting.
In the year 2019, the well-known Canadian hockey commentator Don Cherry, known for his bold demeanor, was let go from Sportsnet. This move generated a lot of buzz, as people reacted strongly to the controversial event that led to the termination of his segment on Hockey Night in Canada.
In this article, we will delve into the details of why was Don Cherry fired from Sportsnet.
Why did Don Cherry get fired by Sportsnet?
On the 9th of November, 2019, Don Cherry, a long-time commentator on Hockey Night in Canada, was let go by Sportsnet following remarks he made during his Coach’s Corner segment that sparked controversy. The comments, made before Remembrance Day, appeared to be critical towards newcomers for not showing respect to fallen Canadian soldiers by wearing poppies.
Hey everyone, I’m Cherry here, and I gotta say, y’all who come to these parts sure do seem to dig our lifestyle. It’s like you can’t get enough of our milk and honey, or at least not enough to spare a few bucks for a poppy or something similar. Now let me tell ya, the folks I’m talking about, they paid dearly for that way of life you all enjoy in Canada. They gave the ultimate price for it. So next time you’re sipping on your coffee or enjoying a peaceful stroll, just remember those who made it possible.
His remark, perceived by many as attacking immigrant communities, promptly faced strong opposition. Both viewers and critics swiftly criticized the comments as “biased,” demanding that Cherry step down from his role.
Sportsnet took prompt action by announcing that Don Cherry would resign after additional talks. In a statement, President of Sportsnet, Bart Yabsley, said, “After Saturday night’s broadcast, further discussions with Don Cherry were held, leading to the decision that it is appropriate for him to step down immediately.” He also emphasized that Cherry’s comments were divisive and did not align with the network’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and unity.
Nevertheless, Cherry upheld his statements and emphasized they did not target any particular group. He clarified, “I didn’t say minorities, I didn’t say immigrants.” He went on to explain that his remarks were directed at all newcomers to Canada, regardless of their origins. In the face of the ensuing uproar, Cherry remained unapologetic, stating he would not change his stance for the sake of keeping his job. (via AP News)
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2024-11-12 16:11