Winnipeg broadcaster Scott Oake announces retirement from Hockey Night in Canada

He’s been a Hockey Night in Canada staple since 1989, and after a storied 50-plus years of broadcasting, Winnipeg’s Scott Oake has announced he’ll be retiring at the end of the 2025-26 NHL season.

“Everything runs its course. And now it’s time for somebody else to do the job,” said Oake.

“When you turn 70, you can say 70 is the new 60, and a lot of people do because people are living longer and taking better care of themselves. But when you turn 80, you are 80, and there’s no getting out of that.”

The 72-year-old Oake has enjoyed a highly coveted career, from Stanley Cup finals to the Olympics, and was appointed to the Order of Canada alongside Ryan Reynolds. The veteran reporter has done it all.

“My goal in broadcasting was just to do a good enough job one week so they would have me back the next week. And I managed to get 50 plus years out of it. Some would say I managed to fool them,” Oake explained.

But through the years, Oake still can’t believe that this is what he did every day.

“I actually have, and I think a lot of people do, the imposter syndrome. You’re always worried they’re going to find out you’re no good. And I’m getting out before they do.”

As for Oake’s retirement, he plans to spend as much time as he can with his grandchildren and dedicate the rest of his time at the Bruce Oake Recovery Centre and the Future Anne Oake Family Recovery Centre, in honour of his late son Bruce and wife Anne.

“I’m inspired every day I come here. Generally, I can feel when I come here, that the culture of hope, kindness, and culture of love. That’s what makes this place a success. I rarely, actually, I can’t think of ever having a bad day here,” Oake explained.

Oake will make his final appearance on Hockey Night in Canada and after hours on Saturday, April 11, but will continue to appear with Sportsnet throughout the upcoming Stanley Cup playoffs.