The long-running show, Hockey Night in Canada: Punjabi Edition, will not be returning for the upcoming NHL season, bringing its 18-year run to a close, as announced by the program on Friday.
Reports indicate that the show had an average viewership of just 1,500, with many games attracting fewer than 1,000 viewers.
The cancellation follows CBC’s loss of its Hockey Night in Canada package after failing to renew a sublicensing agreement with Rogers.
Fans shared their thoughts on X (formerly known as Twitter). One comment read:
“Too bad they were very entertaining Bonino Bonino Bonino!”
Another user expressed:
“The Tradition (No Longer) Continues.”
Some of the other notable reactions on X included:
“Money, money and more money to get fans to buy tickets and view the game in person,” wrote another fan.
“As an American, this sucks. Proof that Rogers only cares about how much money they generate and not maintaining the culture of hockey in Canada,” one user commented.
“Very sad to hear. Don’t understand why if they want to expand viewers and audience bases…,” another added.
“Worst people are making decisions now. That was a great idea and helped so many get into hockey,” remarked another.
Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi issues official statement for fans
In response to the cancellation, Hockey Night in Canada: Punjabi Edition released an official statement confirming the news and expressing gratitude to their loyal fans for the past 18 years:
“A decision has been made that Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi will not be returning. For 18 years, this show brought our community closer to the game we love. It shared the stories of South Asian players and families and created a space that was truly unique in Canadian sports. We are incredibly proud of what we built together.”
“To our viewers: THANK YOU! Your love, support, and unwavering loyalty meant everything to us. You welcomed us into your homes, shared your stories with us, and made this show what it became. We are grateful for every moment we shared with you. Thank you for being part of our family.”
Hockey Night in Canada: Punjabi Edition initially launched as a pilot project during the 2008 Stanley Cup Final. CBC introduced it that year to broadcast NHL games in Punjabi, which eventually became a regular feature on Saturday nights.
Also Read: Hockey fans react as CBC, Sportsnet part ways marking end to Hockey Night in Canada
Edited by Abhishek Dilta
