Jeff Marek's departure sparks rumors of further layoffs at sportsnet
According to reliable sources, the media landscape at Sportsnet is set to undergo significant changes, with potential layoffs looming for several on-air personalities.
The departure of Jeff Marek, a cornerstone of Rogers Sportsnet's broadcasting team, appears to be just the beginning of a series of "changes," including cuts and layoffs within the company.
The anticipated layoffs are expected to affect the radio sector of Sportsnet predominantly, but alterations to television broadcasts are also on the agenda. Despite the swirling rumors and a general call for new blood, veteran host Ron MacLean is predicted to remain a fixture of Hockey Night in Canada for at least another two years, according to insights from YYZSportsMedia
Ron MacLean, who has been at the helm of Hockey Night in Canada for 38 years, has recently faced criticism. At 64, his continued presence has stirred debates among fans who are eager for a change in the broadcasting lineup. This sentiment reflects a broader dissatisfaction with Sportsnet's approach, especially as the network navigates its final two years holding the majority of NHL broadcast rights in Canada.
Sportsnet's strategic shifts come at a critical time when the network is evaluating the relevance of traditional media formats. The discontinuation of Marek's popular radio show and the 32 Thoughts Podcast signals a potentially reduced focus on radio, considered by some within the network as outdated. Yet, the decision to keep MacLean, another veteran, suggests a different stance when it comes to television.
As Sportsnet prepares for more changes in the coming weeks, the hockey broadcasting community and its audience are left hoping that the end of the current NHL broadcast deal might usher in a new era of innovation for hockey broadcasts in Canada. This period of transition could be pivotal for Sportsnet, as it decides how best to serve its audience while adapting to the evolving media landscape.
Source: YYZSportsMedia
Ron MacLean likely staying for 2 years
| POLL | ||
Do you believe Ron MacLean ought to step down? | ||
| Yes, time to step aside | 28 | 87.5 % |
| No, he's still great | 4 | 12.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
