Don Cherry
Don Cherry, a renowned ice hockey commentator, made his mark with bold commentary and vibrant suits, becoming an iconic figure in the sport.
Sports Newscaster
February 5, 1934
Aquarius
91
Kingston, Canada
Don Cherry, the renowned Canadian sportscaster and hockey commentator, left an indelible mark on the sports broadcasting landscape. Born in Kingston, Ontario, Cherry’s passion for hockey led him to a successful junior hockey career before transitioning into broadcasting.
Cherry joined the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) in 1962 and quickly gained prominence for his colorful commentary and outspoken personality. He became synonymous with “Hockey Night in Canada,” co-hosting the iconic program from 1981 to 2019, making him one of the longest-serving sportscasters in Canadian history.
Cherry’s contributions to sports broadcasting were widely recognized, earning him numerous accolades, including five Gemini Awards for Best Sportscaster, the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award from the Hockey Hall of Fame, and inductions into the Hamilton Sports Hall of Fame and the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame.
Beyond his broadcasting career, Cherry founded the Mississauga Ice Dogs junior hockey franchise and the Winnwell Hockey Company, renowned for producing hockey equipment. He also ventured into the restaurant business, establishing several Don Cherry Restaurants in Ontario and Atlantic Canada.
Despite his retirement from “Hockey Night in Canada” in 2019, Cherry’s legacy continues to inspire and entertain sports fans across the nation. Remembered for his signature phrases, distinctive appearance, and unwavering passion for hockey, Don Cherry remains an iconic figure in Canadian sports broadcasting history.
