"The Great One is now pimping big pharma": NHL fans displeased with Wayne Gretzky's new commercial for AREXVY vaccine

NHL fans have expressed their dissatisfaction on social media regarding Wayne Gretzky's latest commercial promoting the AREXVY vaccine. In his Instagram post, Gretzky highlighted the importance of the vaccine for older adults, noting that an AREXVY shot can help protect against lower lung disease caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

He also encouraged individuals to consult their healthcare providers about the vaccine.

Here's how fans on IG reacted to Wayne Gretzky's commercial promoting the AREXVY vaccine. One commented:

"Wonderful. The great One is now pimping big pharma."

Others chimed in with similar sentiments:

"Very disappointing to see the once great one shilling for big Pharma now."

"Oh man. You sold yourself out to big pharma. So disappointed."

Some fans asked Gretzky to reconsider his recent venture into medicine.

"That's sad Wayne. Rethink it."

"Please stay out of the medical field."

However, there was at least one fan who was still supportive of Gretzky's ad.

"Always The Great One!!!!"

Fan comments from Wayne Gretzky's AREXVY post

Fan comments from Wayne Gretzky's AREXVY post

It is worth noting that according to the information from AREXVY's official site, while the vaccine provides protection, 100% efficacy cannot be guaranteed.

Additionally, AREXVY is not intended for the treatment of RSV and does not prevent or reduce the risk of complications associated with the virus.

Wayne Gretzky and other notable names join in support of ALS fund

Wayne Gretzky expressed his admiration for former NHL player Mark Kirton during an event supporting ALS Action Canada on Tuesday. Kirton, who has been affected by the disease and is reliant on an oxygen tube, received heartfelt recognition from "The Great One," who referred to him as a "hero."

The occasion took place at the Wellington Building on Parliament Hill, where Kirton, stood before a gathering from both the political and hockey communities.

According to Hall of Famer Darryl Sittler, the ALS Super Fund has achieved a remarkable milestone, reaching a total of $1 million in donations. Sittler said during the event (via NHL.com):

“Thanks to the unwavering support of Canada's seven National Hockey League teams, some passionate individuals and countless communities, the ALS Super Fund has reached an incredible milestone of $1 million."

“Mark could have felt sorry for himself when he was first diagnosed with ALS,” Sittler added. “That would have been understandable. Instead, he’s trying to help raise funds to find a cure for people who have the same thing.”

Mark Kirton and Gretzky played together during their OHL days. Moreover, Kirton had a brief six-year stint in the NHL, where he played for the Detroit Red Wings, Vancouver Canucks, and Toronto Maple Leafs.