Don Cherry, a prominent yet divisive broadcaster, has been named among the new appointees to the Order of Ontario for 2025, which was recently announced by the Lieutenant Governor. Cherry, best known for his long-running segment 'Coach’s Corner' on Hockey Night in Canada, has had a significant impact on hockey culture in Canada, while also stirring controversy due to his right-leaning politics and outspoken nature. His polarizing persona has garnered both admiration and criticism from the public.

The announcement of Cherry's appointment has sparked discussions on social media regarding whether he might also receive the Order of Canada in the future. Many of his supporters have consistently called for recognition from the national honors system, particularly during milestone occasions such as Canada Day. A petition advocating for Cherry to be awarded the Order of Canada has even amassed over 12,000 signatures, indicating a substantial base of support among his fans and detractors alike.

As Cherry reaches the notable milestone of 92 years of age, the conversation around his contributions to Canadian sports—and the controversies surrounding his views—highlights the complexities of national recognition in modern Canada. The juxtaposition of Cherry's storied career in sports commentary with the divisive opinions about his public persona raises questions about how Canada reconciles its respect for athletic achievement with the contentious nature of some of its popular figures.