The beloved broadcast, Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi, which significantly transformed the representation of Canada’s national sport on television, is concluding after a remarkable 18-year run. The announcement was made on a Friday, marking the end of an era for a show that resonated deeply with the community it served.

The longstanding broadcast team shared a heartfelt message with viewers, reflecting on nearly two decades dedicated to storytelling, cultural connection, and representation within a space that had previously lacked South Asian voices. They expressed their gratitude for the support they received throughout the years.

“For 18 years, this show brought our community closer to the game we love. We are incredibly proud of what we built together,” the statement read in part. The team extended their heartfelt thanks to the viewers, highlighting their love and unwavering loyalty, which they emphasized meant everything to them. “You welcomed us into your homes, shared your stories with us, and made this show what it became. We are grateful for every moment we shared with you. Thank you for being part of our family,” they noted.

A representative from Sportsnet, which is part of OMNI’s parent company Rogers Sports & Media, stated, “We’ve made the difficult decision to end our Punjabi-language NHL broadcasts. While audience levels aren’t strong enough to sustain the production long-term, we know these broadcasts have meant a lot to many Punjabi-speaking hockey fans.” The spokesperson conveyed appreciation for the on-air team, production staff, and viewers who supported the show over its extended run.

Unfortunately, audience statistics revealed that last season, the programs averaged only 1,500 viewers overall, with more than 50% of the games attracting less than 1,000 viewers. This decline in viewership contributed to the decision to conclude the broadcasts.

The announcement stirred a wave of disappointment across social media, with many users expressing sadness over the show's end. Meghan Chayka, co-founder of Stathletes and a contributor at TSN, remarked, “I’m so sad to hear this. You all did such an excellent job.” Another viewer echoed the importance of representation, stating, “Representation matters. Thank you for showing folks that hockey is for everyone.”

Launched in 2008, Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi quickly became one of the country’s most cherished alternative broadcasts. It was noted for its vibrant commentary style, garnering attention for iconic moments, such as the viral “Bonino! Bonino! Bonino!” call. The show also played a crucial role in welcoming new Canadians into the world of hockey.

Rogers is the parent company of OMNI News and CityNews.