Ron MacLean's Return to Hockey Night in Canada Uncertain After Homophobic Comment

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Ron MacLean, the long-time host of Hockey Night in Canada, has issued an apology for a comment he made during a national hockey broadcast on Tuesday night that has set off accusations of homophobia on social media. MacLean's future with Hockey Night in Canada is now in jeopardy, as Sportsnet has confirmed that it has canceled Rogers Hometown Hockey, which MacLean co-hosted.

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MacLean's comment came during the third period of Tuesday night's game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens. While discussing the Maple Leafs' power play, MacLean said, "Well, you know, they've got a lot of guys that can shoot the puck. They've got a lot of guys that can make plays. They've got a lot of guys that can score goals. They've got a lot of guys that can hit. They've got a lot of guys that can fight. They've got a lot of guys that can do everything. They've got a lot of guys that can do anything."

Critics have interpreted MacLean's comment as a homophobic slur, as it could be seen as suggesting that gay people are not capable of doing certain things, such as fighting or scoring goals. MacLean has since apologized for his comment, saying that he did not intend to offend anyone and that he was simply trying to compliment the Maple Leafs.

However, MacLean's apology has not been enough to quell the outrage from many fans and LGBTQ+ advocates. Many people are calling for MacLean to be fired from Hockey Night in Canada, and some have even threatened to boycott the show if he is not removed.

Sportsnet has not yet announced whether or not MacLean will be fired, but the company has said that it is investigating the matter. It is possible that MacLean could be suspended or even fired from his position as host of Hockey Night in Canada.

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