Don Cherry's Son Exposes Sportsnet's Demands Before Legendary Firing
In a shocking revelation, Tim Cherry, the son of hockey icon Don Cherry, has detailed the intense pressure his father faced from Sportsnet executives before his controversial firing in 2019. According to Tim, the network insisted on a pre-written apology and mandatory diversity training, which he described as a "humiliating communist-style struggle session" designed to salvage Cherry's job on Hockey Night in Canada.
The Ultimatum from Sportsnet Brass
Tim Cherry shared these insights during an interview with the Can't Be Censored podcast, set to release on YouTube and Spotify. He explained that after Don Cherry's infamous "you people" rant before Remembrance Day, Sportsnet approached him with a stark ultimatum. The network demanded that the then-85-year-old broadcaster read a lawyer-vetted apology on air and undergo sensitivity training. Tim vehemently opposed this, stating, "My God, you don't understand if dad read this that would ruin his legacy."
Instead of complying, Don Cherry chose to maintain his integrity, leading to his dismissal on Remembrance Day—a move Tim criticized as firing a "legendary patriot" over a segment about poppy-wearing. He added, "They just kept putting the hurdles in front of dad," highlighting the network's persistent demands behind the scenes.
Broader Implications and Reactions
The fallout extended beyond Don Cherry, with Tim alleging that co-host Ron MacLean was also "thrown under the bus" by management, who let him bear the brunt of fan backlash. Sportsnet, CBC, and MacLean have not yet responded to these claims. Tim noted the irony of the situation, explaining that "you people" was a phrase his mother used for decades, which Don adopted without malicious intent.
This scoop comes from podcast hosts Travis Dhanraj and Karman Wong, with Dhanraj having left CBC amid allegations of intimidation—claims the broadcaster denies. Meanwhile, Don Cherry, now 92 and recently honored with the Order of Ontario, continues to enjoy life, eagerly anticipating the Toronto Blue Jays' MLB season and NHL playoffs, free from network censorship.
Key Points from the Revelation:- Sportsnet executives demanded a pre-scripted apology and diversity training from Don Cherry.
- Tim Cherry refused on his father's behalf, citing legacy concerns.
- The firing occurred on Remembrance Day, sparking controversy over patriotism.
- Ron MacLean allegedly faced unfair treatment during the incident.
- Don Cherry remains active and outspoken in retirement.
This story sheds light on the high-stakes negotiations and ethical dilemmas in sports media, underscoring the clash between corporate policies and personal principles in the public eye.
