Remembering George Gillett Jr.: A Legacy Within the Montreal Canadiens
The hockey world is mourning a significant figure in sports management. The Montreal Canadiens officially announced on Wednesday that former owner George Gillett Jr. has passed away at the age of 87. He departed on September 22, 2026, leaving behind a complex and impactful legacy in both North American and European sports.
As first reported by Le Journal de Montréal, Gillett’s tenure as the owner of the storied franchise spanned from 2001 to 2009, a period of transition and modernization for the team.
A Heartfelt Farewell from the Organization
Geoff Molson, the current owner, president, and CEO of the Montreal Canadiens, expressed his deepest condolences in a formal statement, highlighting Gillett’s integration into the city’s unique culture.
“On behalf of the entire organization, I would like to extend my sincerest sympathies to George’s family,” stated Molson. “George integrated himself perfectly into the Montreal community and was appreciated by everyone within the organization. We are very grateful for all his contributions to the Montreal Canadiens during his time as owner.”
Defining Moments of the Gillett Era
George Gillett Jr., born in Racine, Wisconsin, in 1938, acquired the Canadiens and the Molson Centre on January 31, 2001. His ownership witnessed some of the most emotional and structural changes in the club’s history. Key highlights include:
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- The Return of Saku Koivu: One of the most touching moments in NHL history occurred on April 9, 2002, when captain Saku Koivu returned to the ice after defeating cancer—a moment of triumph that defined the era.
- The Birth of the Bell Centre: On September 1, 2002, the team’s home underwent a rebranding, officially becoming the Bell Centre, the state-of-the-art arena that remains a landmark in downtown Montreal.
- Centenary Preparations: Toward the end of his tenure, Gillett laid the groundwork for the team’s historic 2009-10 centenary season, celebrating a century of excellence in professional hockey.
Beyond the Ice: A Global Sports Mogul
Gillett was not only a force in hockey. A seasoned businessman and founder of Book Creek Management Corp., his ambitions extended across the Atlantic. In February 2007, he expanded his sporting empire by becoming the owner of Liverpool FC, one of the most prestigious soccer clubs in the English Premier League.
His journey with the Canadiens concluded on June 20, 2009, when he sold the team, the Bell Centre, and the Gillett Group of Spectacles back to the Molson family, returning the franchise to one of Montreal’s most iconic legacies.
George Gillett Jr. will be remembered as a businessman who navigated the high pressures of professional sports and left an indelible mark on the fabric of the Montreal Canadiens.
