After more than four decades of calling Toronto Maple Leafs games, iconic broadcaster Joe Bowen has announced that he will retire at the conclusion of the 2025-26 NHL season. The news, shared via social media on Friday, June 13th, 2025, marks the end of an era for Leafs fans who have grown up listening to Bowen's passionate play-by-play commentary.
Bowen, 74, a Sudbury, Ontario native, began his broadcasting career covering the OHL's Sudbury Wolves. He later moved to Halifax to announce games for the AHL's Nova Scotia Voyageurs before landing his dream job with the Maple Leafs in 1982. Since then, his voice has become synonymous with the team, delivering iconic calls and memorable moments to generations of listeners. He estimates that he will have broadcast over 3,800 Maple Leafs games by the time he retires.
Known for his booming voice, infectious enthusiasm, and signature catchphrase "Holy Mackinaw!", Bowen has become a beloved figure in the Toronto hockey community. He has also been praised for his partnership with Jim Ralph. His dedication and contribution to the sport were recognized in 2018 when he received the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award from the Hockey Hall of Fame.
In his announcement, Bowen expressed his gratitude to the fans, his broadcast partners, and everyone who supported him throughout his career. He specifically thanked "Leaf Nation" for allowing him "to invade your vehicle, family room and hearts over these wonderful years!" Bowen also expressed his hope that his final season would be the year the Leafs finally break their Stanley Cup drought. "I sincerely hope that this will be the 'one before I am done' season for the Leafs as they chase that elusive Cup," he wrote.
The news of Bowen's retirement has been met with an outpouring of appreciation from fans and media alike. Many have taken to social media to share their favorite Bowen memories and express their gratitude for his years of service. Some fans feel that Sportsnet did him dirty when they secured the Canadian national contract in 2014.
Bowen's departure will undoubtedly leave a void in the Toronto sports landscape. His passion, knowledge, and unmistakable voice have made him one of the most respected and beloved broadcasters in the game. As he enters his final season, Leafs fans will be eager to savor every "Holy Mackinaw!" and hope that Bowen's wish for one last Stanley Cup run comes true. Some suggest that Sportsnet should allow Bowen to call game 82 on television, alongside Jim Ralph.
