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One of the most famous faces in Canadian sports broadcasting is gone.

TSN announced Thursday morning that Darren Dutchyshen has died at the age of 57.

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Dutchyshen has been with TSN since 1995 and has become one of the network’s most recognizable faces, primarily for his role as host of the flagship sports news show, Sports center.

Dutchyshen is known for his dynamism, quick wit and extensive knowledge in various sports.

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“Darren Dutchyshen is a Canadian sports broadcasting legend, a great teammate and an important part of TSN over the past three decades,” said Stewart Johnston, Bell Media Senior Vice President of Sales and Sports.

“Darren’s big personality, great sense of humor and magnetic energy make him a natural broadcaster who connects easily with viewers. His enthusiasm reminds us every day why we love sport. Most importantly, Darren was a friend to all of us at TSN, and he will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and sincere condolences go to his loved ones.

Born in Regina, Dutchyshen landed his first job as a sports anchor at STV in Saskatoon, followed by a stint at IMTV in Dauphin, Manitoba. He also spent seven years as host of ITV’s Sports Night in Edmonton before moving to TSN.

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He started at the Canadian sports giant hosting the weekend editions of SportsDesk and CFL Live before hosting several other programs and playing a leading role in the Kraft Celebration Tour.

“He died while surrounded by his loved ones,” Dutchyshen’s family said, according to TSN. “His quick wit remained until his final moments, often making lots of jokes – most of them quite good and all of them inappropriate.”

Tributes immediately poured in on social media.

“As a 20-something Canadian sports fan, I don’t know hockey or TSN without Darren. Heartbreaking. RIP,” one user commented on X.

“Me and some friends saw him at the bar. I chatted with him and he chatted with us for about half an hour. It doesn’t matter if he’s with other people (who might be upset), he gives honest feedback and does it with a smile. Says a lot about his character. Condolences to his family,” wrote another.

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