After Don Cherry’s remarks on Saturday’s Coach’s Corner episode caused controversy among Canadians, his network has decided to cut ties with him.
Sportsnet announced on Monday he is no longer a part of their team stating “it is the right time for him to immediately step down”.
Statement from Sportsnet: pic.twitter.com/ah3twdx9po
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) November 11, 2019
The decision was made after Cherry singled out immigrants in a rant during the show.
“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,” said Cherry.
Ironically, the announcement of his firing came on Remembrance Day.
The 85-year-old made the comments before a Remembrance Day video began playing where he is shown walking through a military cemetery in France visiting the graves of Canadian soldiers who went to battle in World War I.
After his comments on Coach’s Corner, Sportsnet president Bart Yabsley provided a statement on behalf of the network apologizing for what Cherry said during the show.
Co-host Ron MacLean stepped up with a statement on Sunday.
“I want to sincerely apologize to our viewers and Canadians. During [Saturday] night’s broadcast, Don made comments that were hurtful and prejudiced and I wish I had handled myself differently,” explained MacLean in one of his tweets.
“It was a divisive moment and I am truly upset with myself for allowing it.”
