Don Cherry’s Hockey Night in Canada career has been a staple of Canadian television for decades. With his iconic suits and no-nonsense attitude, Cherry became a household name across the country. But how long did Don Cherry do Hockey Night in Canada? The answer may surprise you.
Born in Kingston, Ontario, Cherry had a long and storied career in hockey before he ever stepped foot in front of the camera. After retiring from coaching, Cherry joined the Hockey Night in Canada team in 1980 and quickly became a fan favorite with his segment, Coach’s Corner.
However, Cherry’s career with the network came to a controversial end in 2019. Despite this, his legacy as a hockey icon remains. In this article, we’ll explore the highs and lows of Don Cherry’s Hockey Night in Canada career, from his humble beginnings in hockey to the legacy he leaves behind.
If you’re a fan of hockey or Canadian culture, you won’t want to miss this deep dive into one of the most fascinating careers in sports broadcasting history. Read on to discover the shocking truth about Don Cherry’s Hockey Night in Canada career.
Table of Contents
Don Cherry’s Humble Beginnings in Hockey
Don Cherry, one of the most beloved and controversial personalities in the history of Canadian hockey, had a humble start in the sport. He was born in Kingston, Ontario in 1934, and grew up playing hockey on frozen ponds with makeshift equipment. Despite his small size, Cherry quickly made a name for himself on the ice, and by the time he was a teenager, he was playing on local junior teams.
Cherry’s passion for hockey would eventually lead him to a long and successful career in the sport, but it all began with his early years on the ice. Here’s a look at some of the key moments that helped shape Cherry’s early hockey career:
Playing Junior Hockey
At the age of 16, Cherry joined the Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey Association’s junior league. He quickly became known for his physical style of play, and helped lead the team to the league championship in 195Cherry’s success with the Spitfires helped him earn a spot with the American Hockey League’s Hershey Bears the following year.
Military Service
In 1954, Cherry was drafted into the Canadian military, and served as a paratrooper for the Royal Canadian Army. He continued to play hockey during his military service, and even played for the Army’s team in the Allan Cup, a national championship for amateur hockey in Canada.
Coaching Career
After retiring from professional hockey in 1972, Cherry turned to coaching, and quickly made a name for himself as one of the top coaches in the sport. He led the Boston Bruins to two Stanley Cup appearances in the late 1970s, and went on to become a legendary broadcaster and commentator on “Hockey Night in Canada”.
In conclusion, Don Cherry’s love for hockey started in his early years on the frozen ponds of Kingston, Ontario, and grew into a lifelong passion. His hard work and dedication to the sport led him to a long and successful career in hockey, both as a player and a coach. Despite the controversies that have surrounded him throughout his career, Cherry’s impact on Canadian hockey is undeniable, and he remains one of the most beloved figures in the sport’s history.
The Rise of Don Cherry and His Iconic Coach’s Corner
Don Cherry’s career in hockey reached new heights when he began hosting Coach’s Corner, a segment of Hockey Night in Canada, in 1980. Known for his bold fashion choices and controversial opinions, Cherry quickly became a beloved figure in Canadian sports media.
Despite the initial skepticism of some viewers, Cherry’s charisma and unfiltered commentary won over audiences and made him a household name. He used his platform to advocate for Canadian hockey and to honor the sacrifices of the country’s armed forces, cementing his status as a cultural icon.
The Impact of Coach’s Corner on Canadian Hockey
Coach’s Corner was more than just a segment of a sports broadcast; it was a cultural phenomenon that had a profound impact on Canadian hockey. Through his commentary, Cherry helped shape public opinion on issues such as player safety, fighting, and foreign players in the NHL. His unapologetic defense of Canadian hockey and its traditions resonated with many fans, and he became a symbol of national pride.
The Controversies of Don Cherry
- Cherry’s outspoken nature often landed him in hot water. He was no stranger to controversy and frequently found himself at the center of media firestorms. One notable incident occurred in 1990, when he made derogatory comments about French-Canadian hockey players on live television, sparking outrage and condemnation from many viewers and public figures.
- Another controversial moment came in 2011, when Cherry criticized the wearing of poppies by Canadian immigrants during a Coach’s Corner segment. His comments were widely condemned as racist and xenophobic, leading to his eventual dismissal from Hockey Night in Canada.
Don Cherry’s Legacy
Love him or hate him, there is no denying that Don Cherry had a profound impact on Canadian hockey and sports media. His bold personality, unfiltered opinions, and iconic fashion sense made him a cultural icon and a beloved figure in Canadian homes for over four decades. Whether you agree with his views or not, his legacy will continue to be felt in Canadian hockey and sports media for years to come.
The Controversial Comments That Led to Don Cherry’s Downfall
Don Cherry, the beloved Canadian hockey commentator and former NHL coach, faced widespread criticism and eventually lost his job after making controversial comments on his show, Coach’s Corner. In November 2019, Cherry made comments on air that many viewed as xenophobic and anti-immigrant.
Cherry criticized immigrants for not wearing poppies, which are used to honor veterans on Remembrance Day. He suggested that immigrants who come to Canada should “put in some time” and “buy a poppy” to show their support for Canadian veterans.
The Backlash
Cherry’s comments were immediately met with backlash from viewers and fellow media personalities. Many felt that his comments were divisive and disrespectful to immigrants and their contributions to Canadian society. Several sponsors of the show also pulled their support following the incident.
Cherry initially refused to apologize for his comments, stating that he was “saying what [he] believes.” However, he later apologized for his comments, stating that he could have used “different words.” Despite his apology, the damage had been done and his comments had ignited a firestorm of controversy.
The End of Coach’s Corner
After more than three decades on the air, Don Cherry’s run on Coach’s Corner came to an end following the controversy. In a statement, Sportsnet, the network that aired the show, announced that they were terminating their relationship with Cherry, stating that his comments were “divisive” and did not represent the network’s values.
While many fans were disappointed to see Cherry go, the controversy surrounding his comments brought to light important discussions about racism, inclusivity, and the role of media personalities in shaping public opinion.
Conclusion
- Don Cherry’s controversial comments on Coach’s Corner sparked widespread backlash and criticism.
- Many viewers and sponsors pulled their support for the show following the incident.
- Despite apologizing for his comments, Cherry’s run on Coach’s Corner came to an end after more than three decades.
What Don Cherry Has Been Up to Since His Departure from Hockey Night in Canada
Don Cherry, the iconic Canadian hockey commentator, made headlines when he was fired from Hockey Night in Canada in 2019 for controversial remarks he made on air. Since then, many have wondered what he has been up to.
Despite his departure from the show, Don Cherry remains a beloved figure in Canadian hockey and continues to be involved in the sport. Here are some of the things he has been doing:
Launching a Podcast
Don Cherry has launched a podcast called Grapevine, which he co-hosts with his son Tim. The podcast features interviews with various hockey players, coaches, and other figures in the sport. Cherry has also used the podcast to share his opinions on current events in the hockey world.
Charitable Work
Don Cherry has been involved in several charitable endeavors over the years. In 2020, he announced that he would be auctioning off some of his most iconic suits to raise money for veterans. The auction was a success, raising over $18,000 for the True Patriot Love Foundation.
Cherry has also been involved with the Kidsport Charity, which helps underprivileged children participate in sports. He has been a longtime supporter of the organization and has helped raise awareness and funds for their cause.
Writing a Book
Don Cherry has announced that he is working on a new book, which is expected to be released in 202The book will reportedly be an autobiography and will cover his long and storied career in hockey. Cherry has said that he wants the book to be a “celebration” of his life and legacy in the sport.
While Don Cherry may no longer be a fixture on Hockey Night in Canada, he remains an important figure in Canadian hockey. Through his podcast, charitable work, and upcoming book, he continues to leave his mark on the sport he loves.
The Legacy Don Cherry Leaves Behind in Canadian Hockey
Don Cherry may have left Hockey Night in Canada, but his legacy in Canadian hockey is undeniable. With his flamboyant suits and no-nonsense attitude, Cherry became a household name across the country. He was known for his passionate commentary, his love of the game, and his unapologetic patriotism.
But Cherry was also a polarizing figure, and his comments often sparked controversy. Despite this, he remained a beloved and respected figure among many hockey fans and players. Here are three ways in which Don Cherry left his mark on Canadian hockey:
Promoting Physical Play and Toughness
Don Cherry was a vocal advocate for physical play and toughness in hockey. He believed that these qualities were essential to the game and that players who lacked them were not true hockey players. Cherry’s commentary often praised players who were willing to drop the gloves and defend their teammates, and he was known for his disdain for “soft” players who shied away from physical contact.
Celebrating Canadian Hockey Culture
Cherry was an ardent defender of Canadian hockey culture, and his commentary often focused on the unique qualities that set Canadian hockey apart from the rest of the world. He celebrated the grit, determination, and physicality of the game, and he was a vocal advocate for Canadian players and coaches. Cherry’s love for the game and his country were evident in everything he said and did.
Giving Back to the Community
Throughout his career, Don Cherry was an active supporter of various charities and community organizations. He was particularly passionate about supporting Canadian military veterans and their families, and he frequently donated his time and resources to organizations that supported these causes. Cherry’s philanthropy and dedication to giving back to the community are a testament to the values that he embodied both on and off the ice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Did Don Cherry Do Hockey Night In Canada?
Don Cherry was a co-host on Hockey Night in Canada for 38 years. He was first hired as a commentator in 1980 and remained with the show until his departure in 2019. During his time on the show, he became known for his flamboyant personality, signature suits, and controversial comments.
What Did Don Cherry Do Before Hockey Night In Canada?
Before joining Hockey Night in Canada, Don Cherry was a former professional hockey player and coach. He played in the NHL and AHL and later went on to coach teams in the AHL, NHL, and European leagues. He also coached the Boston Bruins, Colorado Rockies, and the minor league team, the Rochester Americans.
What Was Don Cherry’s Impact on Canadian Hockey?
Don Cherry had a significant impact on Canadian hockey through his career as a player, coach, and commentator. He was a vocal advocate for tough, physical play and often criticized players who did not conform to his idea of what hockey should be. While controversial, his opinions helped shape the way hockey was played and talked about in Canada.
Why Was Don Cherry Fired from Hockey Night In Canada?
Don Cherry was fired from Hockey Night in Canada in November 2019 following controversial remarks he made on air regarding immigrants and poppies. His comments were widely criticized as being racist and insensitive, and the backlash ultimately led to his termination from the show.
Has Don Cherry Commented on His Departure from Hockey Night In Canada?
Yes, Don Cherry has commented on his departure from Hockey Night in Canada in various interviews since his firing. He has stood by his comments and maintained that he did nothing wrong, but has also expressed regret that his words may have offended some people.
What Is Don Cherry Doing Now?
Since his departure from Hockey Night in Canada, Don Cherry has continued to make occasional appearances on Canadian television and radio programs. He also runs a successful podcast and has been involved in various charitable causes related to hockey and veterans.