Former Sportsnet commentator Jeff Marek responded for the first time since leaving the Canadian broadcasting giant. Marek had been absent from recent editions of the 32 Thoughts podcast with co-host Elliotte Friedman.
Marek posted the following message on X:
“Firstly, thanks for the outpouring of kind words on Twitter/X. It really means the world to me.”
While the message does not provide any sort of details or explanation regarding Marek’s departure from Sportsnet, fans are glad to hear from Marek once again.
Jeff Marek added the following post on X, sharing a heartfelt message reflecting on his time at Sportnet:
“After 13 great years at Sportsnet, I’m moving on. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m thankful to have worked alongside so many great people and played a role in bringing sports and hockey news to fans across Canada and the world. More to come soon.”
As for the future, the cryptic “more to come soon” message could be a hint that Marek will soon join another network. While there is no doubt that Marek should get plenty of job offers, where he lands remains uncertain at this time.
But one thing is clear: Marek is moving on from Sportsnet. After 13 years, it will be strange to see NHL broadcasts without Marek. But as Marek hinted, he should be back sooner than most expect.
Elliotte Friedman addresses Jeff Marek's departure
Elliotte Friedman recently opened up about Jeff Marek's departure from the 32 Thoughts podcast, posting the following comments on X:
"When we started the podcast, Sportsnet asked if I wanted to do it myself or have a co-host. I liked the idea of playing off someone; @moorescottmoore suggested Jeff Marek."
Friedman's comments highlight the seemingly positive relationship between the two co-hosts. Friedman went on to add the following classy comments regarding Marek:
"It was brilliant. Jeff has his loopy suggestions, but they made for fun debates and great moments."
Friedman concluded his wholehearted comments by saying:
"Life throws curveballs at you. I will miss being his teammate, and thank him for being a tremendous co-pilot on the start to our 32 Thoughts podcasting voyage — which will continue."
Ultimately, it seems the show will go on. However, it remains unclear whether Friedman has a go at it alone or if a new co-host will be introduced at some point.
In the meantime, Friedman looks to continue the 32 Thoughts show without a co-host. Perhaps following a period of Friedman running the show alone, Sportnet will determine if adding a co-host is the best course of action.