Don Cherry, the 91-year-old broadcasting legend, has signed off for good from his podcast “Don Cherry’s Grapevine Podcast.” This concludes an extraordinarily productive streak that started in August 2023. His last episode had a whopping 6.5M downloads. This milestone represents a historic moment in Cherry’s storied and often controversial career. Co-hosted with his son, Tim Cherry, the podcast provided a platform for the outspoken figure to share his thoughts on various topics, including hockey and life.
The announcement follows a stormy few weeks for Cherry. His dismissal from his job on “Hockey Night in Canada” became a cause celebre. This came only two days after he gave his infamous tirade on November 9, 2019. The speech, intended to single out immigrants who allegedly fail to wear poppies in reverence to Canadian servicemen, received national condemnation. Throughout this affair, Cherry has repeatedly rejected the notion that he targeted new Canadians with his remarks, claiming he never intended to cause any harm.
A Legacy in Broadcasting
Cherry’s career has taken him through decades of hockey history, but it was his role on “Coach’s Corner” that made Cherry a household name. For nearly 40 years, viewers tuned in to hear his passionate commentary and bold opinions on hockey and Canadian culture. Prior to his broadcasting career, Cherry was a pugnacious former minor league defenceman and later coached the NHL’s Boston Bruins and Colorado Rockies.
His exit from the podcast is yet another step in his legacy. The tentative decision to end the show was made when Tim Cherry said he wasn’t sure there would be new episodes. “I can’t predict any further podcast episodes in the near future,” add he. That is a strong indication that this venture’s demise might indeed be permanent.
Farewell Episode Highlights
Don Cherry signed off with memories of his many years spent entertaining listeners. “Well, Tim, this is our last show. … Thanks everybody for listening and toodaloo,” he said, encapsulating both gratitude and a sense of closure. The episode said goodbye to fans, as well as signaling an end to a historic format. This was the format that had allowed him to bond with a new wave of hockey lovers.
The final podcast episode was shared on Don Cherry’s official X account with the caption, “Don Cherry Says Goodbye in Final Podcast.” This news struck a chord with fans who have followed his life closely, anxious to listen to his farewell message.
Uncertain Future
As discussions about Cherry’s future play out, industry veterans weigh in with their thoughts on what should happen next. Bart Yabsley commented on the unpredictability surrounding Cherry’s return to podcasting: “That being said, if something wild happens like McDavid being traded to the Leafs, I’m sure Don will want to do a quick podcast about it. And when I look toward the beginning of next year, who knows.
This leaves fans wondering whether there could be a surprise return or if Cherry will fully embrace retirement from public commentary.
