Trailblazing NHL reporter and host Christine Simpson’s exit from Sportsnet leads to tributes

After almost three decades on air at Canada’s Rogers-owned Sportsnet, primarily covering the NHL, Christine Simpson is moving on. She tweeted that news on Wednesday.

2/2 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.

— Christine Simpson (@SNChrisSimpson) September 11, 2024

Simpson’s exit drew remarkable tributes from around the hockey world and beyond. Here are a few.

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

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

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

Chris is a bright light who has given so much to the game, and I’m sad to see her go from Sportsnet. https://t.co/Prqd69AD0O

— Bruce Arthur (@bruce_arthur) September 11, 2024

This woman was a trailblazer in Canada in sports television. She deserves every ounce of our admiration and respect. https://t.co/IzTWCE5TM4

— John Shannon (@JShannonhl) September 11, 2024

Christine is one of the best in the business. Disappointed to hear this. Another network will be fortunate to get her. https://t.co/RoOY5ZoFLg

— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) September 11, 2024

This is so disappointing ! Great co worker , great professional and a better person ! All the best Christine ! https://t.co/FWfLimHhk6

— Doug Maclean (@DougMaclean) September 11, 2024

Smart, funny, connected, prepared and interesting. Never turned the channel when Chris was on. https://t.co/sSsdvEzQwB

— gary lawless (@garylawless) September 11, 2024

Simpson’s exit here is notable on several fronts. One is the overarching narrative of media organizations moving on from proven and long-tenured veterans with significant institutional knowledge in favor of younger and cheaper names. Another is the overall representation of women in the national NHL media space, which has not been great over the past few years in either the U.S. or Canada. And that looks set to take a further hit after this news of Simpson moving on from Canada’s primary NHL rightsholder (unless she winds up with another NHL broadcaster, which is possible).

At any rate, Simpson made a remarkable impact during her decades with Sportsnet. It will certainly be worth keeping an eye out for what she does next.

[Christine Simpson on X/Twitter; image via Christine Simpson on Instagram]