Ron MacLean speaks candidly on camera for the first time since Don Cherry’s firing

On Monday, legendary Canadian broadcaster Don Cherry was fired by Rogers Sportsnet for making divisive comments about immigrants and newcomers to Canada who do not wear a poppy to show support for Canadian veterans.  

Cherry said: 

“You people … you 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.”

Those words generated enough outrage online to the point where Rogers felt they had no choice but to dismiss Cherry from his job. Just a day earlier though, Sportsnet issued an apology to fans but… well it wasn’t enough. Cherry’s long-time Coach’s Corner sidekick Ron MacLean also offered up an apology ahead of Cherry’s firing and actively distanced himself from Cherry.

Check it out:

Since then though, MacLean has been quiet about the news of his partner’s firing. Cherry himself admitted that he was a bit hurt by MacLean’s words and by the fact that his partner wouldn’t stick up for him, but he doesn’t hold it against his long-time friend. Just last night though, cameras managed to capture MacLean in a candid moment and he finally shared his thoughts.

Check it out:

In other words, “I don’t want to incriminate myself, so please leave me along.” And you know what? Fair enough. The way in which people want to take others down for saying something potentially insensitive or controversial is frightening. If I were Ron MacLean or any Rogers broadcaster right now, I’d be terrified to make a wrong step. Smart move, Ron.