HBO has announced they will not be producing NHL 24/7 for the upcoming 2015 Winter Classic between the Washington Capitals and the Chicago Blackhawks. The news originally leaked out on Twitter and was later confirmed by HBO through various sources such as Puck Daddy.
Here’s what Ray Stallone, a spokesman for HBO, told Puck Daddy:
“Everybody at HBO enjoyed working with the NHL and its teams on ‘24/7’ the past four years. It was an exciting endeavor and we’re very proud of the never-before-seen presentation of the world of hockey that ‘24/7’ was able to capture.
There was never an expectation that HBO would chronicle the lead-up to the Winter Classic every year. So we will not be involved with the NHL this season. We wish the NHL the very best and the door will always remain open.”
The announcement is obviously very disappointing for hockey fans, but perhaps it’s not unexpected. What was once a very unique format brought to us by 24/7 has since been copied by various NHL and team productions. Though these productions aren’t as explicit as what’s seen on HBO, it’s clear the format has been done and HBO is no longer alone in showing what happens behind the scenes.
Add the above sentiment with the fact last year’s installment with Toronto and Detroit wasn’t exactly thrilling and you have a solid case to shutter the production. It’s nice to see HBO left the door open for a return, but that probably won’t be happening for quite a while.
Worried about where you’ll get your next fix of 24/7? The NHL and NHL Network may be working to find a solution. HBO’s 24/7 is pretty similar to NHL 36 which follows one specific player around for 36 hours. Expanding this project would result in a more tame product, but at least it’d be something.
Stay tuned.
