Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Don Cherry

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 29, 2025

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Don Cherry.

Don Cherry is a Canadian former ice hockey player, coach, and television commentator. He played briefly in the NHL for the Boston Bruins, later coaching the same team for five seasons. As a coach, he led the Bruins to four division titles and two Stanley Cup Finals appearances. Cherry's career transitioned from playing and coaching to becoming a well-known, and sometimes controversial, figure in hockey broadcasting.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals

1989: Referred to Alpo Suhonen as "some kind of dog food"

In 1989, Don Cherry referred to Finnish-born Winnipeg Jets assistant coach Alpo Suhonen as "some kind of dog food", triggering the threat of a lawsuit from Jets owner Barry Shenkarow.

March 22, 2003: Cherry Supports Invasion of Iraq

On March 22, 2003, Don Cherry criticized Montreal fans for booing the American national anthem and criticized the Canadian government for not supporting the U.S. in the invasion of Iraq during his CBC segment.

2003: Cherry Criticizes Sidney Crosby

In 2003, Don Cherry criticized junior prospect Sidney Crosby for being a "hot dog" because of his goal celebration.

2003: Criticism for views on Iraq invasion

In 2003, Don Cherry faced criticism for expressing controversial political views, including remarks he made regarding Canada's lack of support for the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

January 2004: Cherry Claims Visors Increase High-Sticking

In January 2004, Don Cherry claimed during Coach's Corner that NHL players who wear visors were more prone to high-sticking penalties, and that "Most of the guys that wear them are Europeans and French [Canadian] guys". This led to controversy, an investigation, protests and the imposition of a seven-second delay on Hockey Night in Canada.

2008: Cherry Calls David Suzuki A "Left-Wing Kook"

In 2008, Don Cherry called environmental activist David Suzuki a "left-wing kook" during a Hockey Night in Canada broadcast.

2009: Cherry Comments on Ovechkin's Celebration

In 2009, Don Cherry commented on the controversy caused by Alexander Ovechkin's celebration after he scored his 50th goal.

December 7, 2010: Cherry Attends Toronto City Council Meeting

On December 7, 2010, Don Cherry attended an inaugural meeting of Toronto City Council, placed the chain of office around Mayor Rob Ford's neck, and made controversial remarks about "left-wing kooks."

2018: Cherry Denies Climate Change

In 2018, Don Cherry faced backlash after denying the existence of climate change and referring to people who acknowledge it as "cuckaloos."

November 9, 2019: Cherry's Remembrance Poppy Comments Spark Outrage

On November 9, 2019, during Coach's Corner, Don Cherry made controversial remarks about Canadian immigrants not wearing remembrance poppies, leading to widespread condemnation, an apology from Sportsnet, and a statement from the NHL denouncing the comments. Cherry refused to apologize.

November 2019: Fired by Sportsnet from Hockey Night in Canada

In November 2019, Don Cherry was fired by Sportsnet from "Hockey Night in Canada" for making racist comments about Canadian immigrants during his show.

Loading Video...

2019: Cherry Criticizes Carolina Hurricanes

In 2019, Don Cherry called the Carolina Hurricanes a "bunch of jerks" for their on-ice victory celebrations, which the team subsequently adopted as a battle cry.