"A true Canadian broadcasting legend" - NHL fans mourn the loss of veteran broadcaster Darren Dutchyshen

NHL fans mourned the death of Canadian sports broadcasting icon Darren Dutchyshen.

On Thursday, TSN announced that Dutchyshen passed away. He was a longtime host of Sportscenter in Canada.

“He passed as he was surrounded by his closest loved ones,” the Dutchyshen family said. “His sharp wit remained until his final moments, classically delivering plenty of jokes – most of them pretty good and all of them inappropriate.”

Dutchyshen began his TSN career in 1995, and following his death, NHL fans mourned the loss of the legend.

"He was good. Sad. Rest in peace," a fan wrote.

"One of the best at his profession. Also seemed like a great and happy person. Very sad news," a fan wrote.

"My condolences to a true Canadian broadcasting legend, and your friend. Rest in Peace Dutch," a fan wrote.

The emotional reactions continued to fill in after the heartbreaking news.

"My love for sports is in large part due to Darren’s work at ITV in Edmonton. Very sad," a fan added.

"Such a big part of making me love sports. Could watch him for hours. Thanks for everything Dutchy! Rest in peace!," a fan wrote.

Most fans in Canada grew up watching Dutchyshen as he was part of their morning on SportsCenter.

"His highlights were the best. BANG! You will be missed," a fan added.

"Since I’ve been watching TSN he was the voice of TSN sorry for your loss," a fan wrote.

Dutchyshen was 57 at the time of his death. He revealed he had prostate cancer on Sept. 9, 2021, and spent a year away from TSN while receiving treatment.

TSN shares statement on the passing of Darren Dutchyshen

Following the heartbreaking news, TSN put out a statement on the death of Darren Dutchyshen.

“Darren Dutchyshen was a legend of Canadian sports broadcasting, a great teammate, and an essential part of TSN for the last three decades,” said Stewart Johnston, Senior Vice President, Sales & Sports, Bell Media.

“A larger-than-life personality, Darren’s incredible sense of humour and magnetic energy made him a natural broadcaster who connected easily with viewers. His enthusiasm reminded us every day of why we love sports. Most significantly, Darren was a friend to all of us at TSN, and we will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his loved ones.”

TSN said it will honor Dutchyshen over the coming days as colleagues will share stories on the air.