‘Thank you for being part of our family’: Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi ends 18‑year run

Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi, a broadcast that revolutionized how Canada's national sport is portrayed on television, is coming to an end after 18 years. The announcement was made Friday, with the longtime broadcast team confirming the show will not return on OMNI TV. In a message to viewers, they expressed gratitude and highlighted the show's cultural impact and representation of South Asian voices.

"For 18 years, this show brought our community closer to the game we love," the statement read. "We are incredibly proud of what we built together," it continued. "To our viewers: THANK YOU! Your love, support, and unwavering loyalty meant everything to us. 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."

Although audience levels weren't high enough to keep the production going long-term, Sportsnet, which owns OMNI, expressed appreciation for the show's impact. The audience averaged 1,500 viewers overall for the last season, with more than 50% of games averaging less than 1,000 viewers. The show's end was announced following a social media outpouring of disappointment and praise.

Fans expressed sadness over its conclusion and commended the show for its inclusive representation and energetic broadcasts. Launched in 2008, Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi quickly became one of Canada's most beloved alternative broadcasts, known for its engaging commentary and welcoming approach to new Canadians learning the sport.