TORONTO (AP) — The first episode of a hit show on Canadian television will be a tribute to the late Wade Belak.
The recently retired NHL enforcer was to compete on the third season of “Battle of the Blades.” The show pairs professional hockey players and figure skaters. Belak was found dead in a Toronto hotel and condo last month. Police have called the death an apparent suicide.
The hourlong episode on the CBC network features all the players preparing for the competition. CBS says the tribute on Sept. 18 will highlight Belak’s “enthusiasm and humor.”
CBC says it hopes to find a replacement for Belak, who was partnered with figure skater Kim Navarro. Live competition begins Sept. 25.
