Wayne Gretzky

Gretzky's attendance at Donald Trump's inauguration, his public friendship with Trump and his role as Canada's honorary captain at the 4 Nations Face-Off sparked a strong reaction in Canada amid tariff threats and Trump's remarks about a "51st state". Petitions demanded the removal of his name from an avenue and the revocation of his Order of Canada.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated

Gretzky became a BetMGM ambassador in 2021 and appeared in sports betting campaigns, notably alongside Connor McDavid. In Canada, the saturation of advertising prompted criticism from experts and parliamentarians over risks to young people; Ontario subsequently decided to prohibit the use of athletes and certain celebrities in such advertisements where their image could appeal to minors.

State of the evidence

Documented

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Directly implicated

Gretzky campaigned alongside Stephen Harper, calling him an outstanding prime minister, while his status as a long-term expatriate prevented him from voting in federal elections at the time. This contradiction fuelled political controversy.

State of the evidence

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Personally implicated

In the Coyotes bankruptcy, Gretzky appeared as coach, minority partner and unsecured creditor with a reported claim of 22,5 M$. As litigation over the franchise's sale continued and his position in the bids remained uncertain, he resigned from his roles.

State of the evidence

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Directly implicated

The Operation Slap Shot investigation into a betting ring notably involved his assistant Rick Tocchet and wife Janet Jones, placing Gretzky under intense media scrutiny. Reports referred to conversations suggesting that he knew of the betting activity.

Attribution

Protagonist is a witness

Role of the person profiled

Protagonist not prosecuted

Gretzky publicly praised George W. Bush and declared his 100 % support during the Iraq War. In Edmonton, his statue was adorned with a sign reading "U$ Lackey", symbolising the backlash against his position.

State of the evidence

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Personally implicated

The Oilers traded Gretzky and two teammates to the Kings in exchange for players, draft picks and 15 M$. The transaction shocked Canada, sparking lasting debate over whether the player had effectively been sold and the respective roles of Gretzky, Janet Jones and owner Peter Pocklington in the decision.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Directly implicated