Hockey commentator Don Cherry fired for rant over immigrants

TORONTO (AP) — A Canadian broadcast company has fired hockey commentator Don Cherry for calling immigrants "you people" in a rant on television in which he said new immigrants are not honoring the country's fallen soldiers.

Rogers Sportsnet president Bart Yabsley said in a statement Monday that after discussions with Cherry "it has been decided it is the right time for him to immediately step down."

The official statement:(--: @Sportsnet) pic.twitter.com/AK9ZlmdYlH

The 85-year-old Cherry called immigrants "you people" and said, "you love our way of life, you love our milk and honey" and said he didn't see immigrants wearing poppies to honor the country's fallen on Remembrance Day, which is observed on Monday.

Cherry was known for his flamboyant style, especially his colorful suits, but has had a long history of making offensive comments during the Coach's Corner segment of Hockey Night in Canada. He has been doing the segment for 34 seasons with Ron MacLean. 

Don Cherry’s rant on immigrants:“You people... love our way of life, love our milk and honey. At least you could pay a couple of bucks for poppies or something like that. These guys paid for your way of life that you enjoy in Canada.”Ron MacLean nodded and gave a thumbs up. pic.twitter.com/OXnIwV1n9T

MacLean had apologized on Twitter Sunday night.

"During last night's broadcast, Don made comments that were hurtful and prejudiced and I wish I had handled myself differently," he tweeted. "It was a divisive moment and I am truly upset with myself for allowing it.

"I have worked with Don for 30 years, and we both love hockey. But last night, I know we failed you. I see hockey as part of what unites us. I have the honour of travelling across our country to celebrate Canada's game, and our diversity is one of our country's greatest strengths."

The firing occurred on Remembrance Day or Poppy Day in Canada – a holiday observed since the end of the First World War to remember the soldiers who have died in the line of duty.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.