Christine Simpson, one of the country’s most prominent on-air hockey personalities, is moving on from Roger’s Sportsnet after nearly three decades with the sports network.
The longtime reporter, host and analyst, who has sat down with every big name you can imagine over her illustrious career, announced the news via X on Wednesday.
“As my time at Sportsnet comes to an end I can’t help but feel grateful for my experience,” Simpson wrote. “Since we went to air in ‘98 it’s been my absolute privilege to cover the NHL. Meeting so many men and women in the game and 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.”
Sportsnet’s public relations department responded to the news with an X post of its own, wishing Simpson the best and thanking her for “being a pioneer” in the sports media industry.
After more than 20 years profiling hockey’s top personalities with her iconic style and grace, Sportsnet is parting ways with Christine Simpson.
Thank you, Christine, for being a pioneer in sports broadcasting and for all you contributed to Sportsnet. We wish you the very best! https://t.co/3IzwDwtsRe
— Sportsnet PR (@SportsnetPR) September 11, 2024
As you can imagine, the social post from Sportsnet prompted plenty of emotional reaction from fans, with most lamenting the network’s decision to move on from one of the best hockey broadcasters and storytellers in the business — on either side of the border.
“Terrible decision by Sportsnet,” wrote one X user.
“Looking for a younger cheaper replacement?” posted another.
One reply reads: “Sportsnet continues to make mistakes as to what type of journalism [Canadians] value. One by one, you’re giving us less reasons to view your content.”
“They keep letting go of the wrong people,” wrote another user.
The support for the Canadian broadcasting legend wasn’t just limited to hockey fans. Several big-name media colleagues from coast-to-coast — in both Canada and the United States — took to social media to pay their respects to Simpson and detail what she meant to their careers, and the industry as a whole over her 20-plus years at Sportsnet.
I have no idea what Christine Simpson wants to do next.
But here is what I do know.
1. I have seen so many sports media organizations devalue institutional knowledge. That ethos crosses borders and is usually related to one thing: Money.
2. Amazon should hire her as it moves… https://t.co/J6GIqY0VIo
— Richard Deitsch (@richarddeitsch) September 11, 2024
Christine revealed the humanity in hockey in a way I’ve never seen before. She uncovers personal stories with the utmost respect and sincerity. I’ve always admired her work and kindness. She carved out space in this industry, paving the way for more women to follow. https://t.co/nd5yreT8D1
— Kenzie Lalonde (@KenzieTSN) September 11, 2024
Wow. An icon in covering this sport. When you’d see Christine Simpson sitting down with someone in hockey, you knew it was going to be insightful, informed and worth your time. Hope we see more of it. https://t.co/OkQTQChSWz
— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) September 11, 2024
I cannot overstate what an inspiration Christine is, both as a broadcaster, and as a human being. She is the picture of poise, dedication, hard work, and professionalism. Not to mention a beloved friend. ❤️
I am baffled by the decision to let a woman of this caliber go. 1/2 https://t.co/frKFSjWMDX
— Tara Slone (@TaraSlone) September 11, 2024
It’s not yet clear what comes next for Simpson, but based on her post it doesn’t appear she plans on hanging up the microphone for good just yet.
Streaming companies such as Amazon, Netflix, Apple TV, and even Sportsnet’s rival sports network, TSN, are all rumoured to be in the mix to acquire the Canadian NHL broadcasting rights when the current 12-year, $5.2-billion deal between Rogers/Sportsnet and the league ends following the 2025-26 season. It wouldn’t be a shock at all to see Simpson land at one of those companies in the near future.
Simpson began her broadcasting career way back in 1998 when Rogers first launched Sportsnet, hosting her own show called “Showtime with Chris Simpson” while working her way up the ladder as a hockey features reporter.
The 59-year-old briefly left the network in 2008 but returned three years later and never looked back, establishing herself as one of the premier reports and interviewers in the hockey world. Simpson, who hails from London, Ontario, has also worked as a reporter for major U.S. broadcasters including ESPN, ABC, NBCSN, and the NHL Network.
