Jeff Marek makes first public statement since parting ways with Sportsnet

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TJ Tucker
July 26, 2024 (10:14 PM)

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Longtime Sportsnet and Hockey Night in Canada host Jeff Marek has finally decided to break his silence after being absent from his duties since the 2024 entry draft

After a ton of speculation over the past few days over just what was happening, well-known hockey personality Jeff Marek has decided to make a public statement. Questions started to come forward following a report that Marek had been let go after something that apparently happened at the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, which was the last anyone had heard from him on the air.

"Details are scarce but multiple sources tell me that for unconfirmed draft reasons @JeffMarek will likely be no longer performing duties at Sportnet hockey. Details to follow. This would appear to include his podcast duties too."

Days after that report, Marek has decided to make a statement on his absence. He doesn't say why, but confirms that he's no longer with Sportsnet. However, it doesn't sound as though there are hard feeling over his departure.

"Firstly, thanks for the outpouring of kinds words on Twitter/X. It really means the world to me.

After 13 great years at Sportsnet, I'm moving on. It's been an incredible journey and I'm thankful to have worked alongside so many great people and played a role in bringing sports and hockey news to fans across Canada and the world. More to come soon. - Jeff."

While he served various roles for Sportsnet, owned by Rogers, Marek was perhaps best-known for his work with Elliotte Freidman on what started as the 31 Thoughts podcast, which turned into 32 Thoughts with the addition of the Seattle Kraken to the NHL. Friedman paid tribute to his friend following Marek's statement. He also confirmed 32 Thoughts will continue.

"When we started the podcast, Sportsnet asked if I wanted to do it myself or have a co-host. I liked the idea of playing off someone; @moorescottmoore suggested Jeff Marek.

It was brilliant. Jeff has his loopy suggestions, but they made for fun debates and great moments.

Life throws curveballs at you. I will miss being his teammate, and thank him for being a tremendous co-pilot on the start to our 32 Thoughts podcasting voyage � which will continue."

It seems we'll have to wait and see where Marek might popup next. But it will be surprising if he doesn't land at a rival, or elsewhere.