Another shocking departure at Sportsnet!

Rogers Sportsnet is losing another top talent as Christine Simpson, known as Chris Simpson on air, has announced that she is no longer employed by the company.

“As my time at Sportsnet comes to an end I can’t help but feel grateful for my experience. Since we went to air in ‘98 it’s been my absolute privilege to cover the NHL. Meeting so many men & women in the game & sharing their stories brought me more joy than you can imagine.

“This was so much more than a job to me. So while I’m sad to see my chapter at Sportsnet come to a close, I’m eager to see what my next chapter will bring. Thanks to all who have watched & supported me along the way.”

Simpson began her career as a hockey reporter in 1998 and has been a key member of Sportsnet’s Hockey Night in Canada, leading wonderful interviews with superstars across the NHL.

This is another big loss to Sportsnet, who let go of Jeff Marek earlier this summer. The company let Marek go after it was reported that former host had leaked information of players from the 2024 NHL Entry Draft. Marek has yet to surface elsewhere in hockey media, but he did share a message earlier this offseason confirming that he’s no longer with Sportsnet and that he’s pursuing new opportunities. Last week, it was confirmed by Sportsnet that in-arena host Kyle Bukauskas will take over Marek’s role with the 32 Thoughts podcast with Elliotte Friedman.

When Simpson made her announcement, fans immediately wondered if they had missed something, hoping she is moving on to another exciting opportunity. I guess we will find out more in the coming days.

When we talk about departures at Sportsnet, many fans are almost hoping host Ron MacLean is the one involved. His deal is however up in two years time.

Personally, I grew up with Ron (And Don!) on my television every Saturday night. I came to love Ron and the foil role that he played with long-time broadcast partner Don Cherry. Now though, MacLean comes across like a tired old man full of tired old man stories from yesteryear.

However, this time, it is the wonderful Chris Simpson saying goodbye with many current and former co-workers and fans wishing her all the best in the future.