Beloved Maple Leafs Commentator Joe Bowen Makes Heartbreaking Announcement

Forced to call playoff games using a monitor again this post-season, Joe Bowen never let it limit his passion and exuberance for calling Maple Leafs games.

The voice of the Maple Leafs for more than 40 years on TV and radio, Joe Bowen has shared in jubilation and disappointment with generations of Leafs fans throughout his time as the Leafs' play-by-play commentator, with younger fans often being introduced to his commentary with his trademark "Holy Mackinaw" catch-phrase.

Unfortunately, Bowen's legendary time with the Maple Leafs is coming to an end as the 74-year-old announced on social media on Friday morning that the 2025-26 season would be his last behind the microphone and in the Foster Hewitt media gondola at Scotiabank Arena.

The Sudbury native thanked MLSE, his partners and, of course, Leafs Nation for his time getting to do his 'dream job', and ended his statement hoping that his final season will finally be the season the Leafs 'capture that elusive Cup.'

From Leafs Nation, Joe, we all hope the Leafs will capture the Stanley Cup in our lifetimes, but thank you for inspiring the next generation of commentators and for always bringing the passion that unites us all.