The longtime voice of “Coach’s Corner” on “Hockey Night in Canada,” Don Cherry, has been fired after making anti-immigrant comments during a recent broadcast, according to the Toronto Sun.
Cherry, 85, made comments Saturday during “Hockey Night in Canada," directed at immigrants in Toronto, accusing them of “not wearing poppies” for Remembrance Day.
“You people... you love our way of life, you love our milk and honey, at least you can pay a couple bucks for a poppy or something like that,” Cherry said. “These guys paid for your way of life that you enjoy in Canada, these guys paid the biggest price.”
Joe Warmington of the Toronto Sun reported Monday afternoon that Sportsnet has fired Cherry:
BREAKING- @CoachsCornerDC has been fired by @Sportsnet - story to come.
— Joe Warmington (@joe_warmington) November 11, 2019
Sportsnet confirmed the news:
Statement from Sportsnet: pic.twitter.com/LRKrww0AQ1
— Sportsnet PR (@SportsnetPR) November 11, 2019
Cherry, along with co-host Ron MacLean, have hosted “Coaches Corner” for 33 seasons, since 1986.
MacLean issued a statement Sunday apologizing for the comments, saying:
“During last night’s broadcast, Don made comments that were hurtful and prejudiced and I wish I had handled myself differently. It was a divisive moment and I am truly upset with myself for allowing it. I have worked with Don for 30 years, and we both love hockey. But last night, I know we failed you. I see hockey as part of what unites us. I have the honour of travelling across our country to celebrate Canada’s game, and our diversity is one of our country’s greatest strengths.”
Sportsnet also condemned the comments on Sunday:
Statement from Sportsnet: pic.twitter.com/QZ76r9Y7sb
— Sportsnet PR (@SportsnetPR) November 10, 2019