Darren Dutchyshen, a long-time TSN anchor and personality, has died after a long battle with prostate cancer. He was 57.
A Regina native, Darren “Dutchy” Dutchyshen began his TSN career in 1995 and quickly became a network regular on its Sportscentre program for the next 30 years.
Described as one of Canada’s most popular and engaging sports personalities, Dutchyshen was crucial in the rollout of the Kraft Celebration Tour for several years.
He also became a dominant figure with the network’s CFL broadcasts and hosted Olympic Prime Time during the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games and London 2012 Summer Games.
Dutchyshen announced back in 2021 that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer on Twitter, subsequently resulting in reduced on-air time at TSN.
As news came forward of his passing, fans and colleagues took to social media with messages of condolences and praise.
Jeff Sehl, TSN story editor and Humber College journalism alumni, said on social media “This is a tough one to swallow. Dutch had an aura about him, he lit up a room.
“He had an infectious energy and passion for whatever he was doing and he lived up to the hype in every way. What you saw on TV was exactly who he was behind the scenes,” Sehl said.
Edmonton Oilers paid its respects to Dutchyshen.
“We send our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Edmonton broadcasting legend Darren Dutchyshen. RIP, Dutchy,” the team said on its official X page.
We send our deepest condolences to the family, friends & colleagues of Edmonton broadcasting legend Darren Dutchyshen. RIP, Dutchy 💙🧡 https://t.co/RcJvZeqsKV
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) May 16, 2024
He leaves behind his wife Candice, and his children Paige, Tyler, and Brett.
TSN will be continuing to honour Dutchyshen for the next few days.