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Canadian sportscaster and TV personality Christiane Simpson has announced her exit from Sportsnet after almost three decades of covering ice-hockey for the network. Simpson, 59, has been one of the longest serving female reporters on the NHL circuit.
Christine Simpson announced her decision to part ways with Sportsnet on her X account on Wednesday. She expressed her gratitude to everyone who has been part of the NHL.
“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..,” Christine Simpson wrote on X.
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However, this might not be the end for Simpson. She also mentioned looking forward to her future.
“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 added.
After starting her career as the Marketing Manager at the Hockey Hall of Fame, Simpson worked as the first in-arena host for the Toronto Maple Leafs. In 1998, she joined Rogers Sportsnet as a hockey features reporter and host of Showtime with Chris Simpson.
She also worked as a rinkside reporter for NHL broadcasts on ABC, ESPN and NBCSN. Simpson hosted the weekly show Captains on NHL Network and has since become one of the most renowned faces in the industry.
Christine Simpson showered with best wishes
Simspon’s announcement received a warm response from her fans and colleagues. Other big names in the industry appreciated her contribution to spectator sports and fans wished her good luck.
“You’re one of the very best, Chris!” wrote David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period.
“This is so disappointing ! Great co worker , great professional and a better person ! All the best Christine !” tweeted former NHL president Doug Maclean.
Some were not happy that Sportsnet was parting ways with Simpson. NBCSports’ Tara Slone expressed the same in her tweet:
“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”
“First Marek, and now Christine Simpson? Sportsnet's hockey talent is getting thinned out,” quipped one user.
“There are VERY few people in the hockey media circle that players TRULY respect. Christine allowed players to confidently show *some* of their personality. Massive respect both ways from day 1 across all sports and athletes. Sportsnet lost the best in the business. Good luck!” commented one fan.
Christine Simpson has not shared her next plans yet after parting ways with Sportsnet. The Canadian sportscaster had worked for a short time with regional network MSG+ back in the winter of 2010. Other than that, Simpson had spent the majority of her broadcasting career with Sportsnet.
