Don Cherry has reportedly been fired after making xenophobic comments on his Saturday segment of Coach’s Corner.
“You people that come here, you love our way of life, you love our milk and honey, at least you could pay a couple of bucks for a poppy,” Cherry stated during his broadcast. These comments elicited severe backlash from fans, in addition to an apology from co-host Ron MacLean.
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.
— Ron MacLean (@RonMacLeanHTH) November 10, 2019
Now multiple media reports, including one from Toronto Sun’s Joe Warmington, who broke the news, suggest that Cherry has been let go.
BREAKING- @CoachsCornerDC has been fired by @Sportsnet – story to come.
— Joe Warmington (@joe_warmington) November 11, 2019
Yes @CoachsCornerDC has been fired by @Sportsnet – story soon. Including an interview with Don Cherry who is quite hurt they would do this on Remembrance Day of all days.
— Joe Warmington (@joe_warmington) November 11, 2019
“Don’s discriminatory comments are offensive and they do not represent our values and what we stand for as a network,” Sportnet President Bart Yabsley wrote in a statement. “We have spoken with Don about the severity of this issue and we sincerely apologize for these divisive remarks.”
Sportsnet has now released a statement about Cherry’s firing, which you can read in full below.
Statement from Sportsnet: pic.twitter.com/ah3twdx9po
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) November 11, 2019
Cherry has yet to comment on the reports.