Wayne Gretzky is an NHL legend. From the beginning to the end of his career, Wayne dominated the sport of ice hockey. While Wayne wasn’t the strongest or the fastest player on the field, his stamina and game IQ were second to none. Over the years, Wayne racked up records that remain unbroken.
While Wayne found success with every team he played for, the legend once had to deal with embarrassment outside the field. Wayne proposed to Oprah on live TV. However, things didn’t go as planned. The NHL legend had to pick up the pieces.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
When Oprah Winfrey rejected Wayne Gretzky
Late Night With David Letterman was an iconic show. For every episode, Letterman invited a celebrity. Once, Orpah was a guest on the show. However, she was clueless about Gretzky’s plan. During the show, Letterman told Oprah there was someone who wanted to tell Oprah something. After David Oprah, the live band began playing Wagner’s “Here comes the bride”.
Wayne appeared on stage as the song was playing. However, he didn’t come empty-handed. The NHL legend was holding the Stanley Cup in his hands, and he filled the trophy with roses. His next move shocked Oprah. Wayne went down on one knee and said, “Mrs. Winfrey, you’re the love of my life. You’re my sun, my stars, and my moon. Oprah, will you be my loving wife?”
On this day in 1983, the #NJDevils lost to the Oilers, 13-4, at the Meadowlands. After the game, Wayne Gretzky—who had 8 points—said of the Devils: “It’s time they got their act together. They’re ruining the whole league. They better stop running a Mickey Mouse organization…” pic.twitter.com/fIPFdqmd2f
— New Jersey Devils History (@DevilsOfYore) November 18, 2022
The NHL legend handed Oprah the Stanley cup. However, Oprah didn’t accept Wayne’s proposal. She shook her head and tried to hand the rose-filled trophy back to Wayne. The NHL legend froze, and moments of painful silence followed. Finally, Oprah put the cup down on the ground. Wayne looked red-faced and embarrassed.
Somehow, things got worse for Gretzky. While trying to pick up the Stanley cup, Wayne accidentally knocked it over. The red roses spilled out as the trophy hit the floor with a loud metallic clang.
His legendary career
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While Wayne Gretzky’s marriage proposal to Oprah was unsuccessful, on the field he only found success. Many fans regard Wayne as the greatest hockey player in history. Wayne scored over 200 points in one season, four times in his career. No other player has done it even once.
Wayne also scored the most goals, produced the most assists, and holds the record for overall points scored. With 40 regular seasons, 50 playoffs, and 6 All-star records, Gretzky has earned the nickname “The Great One”.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story: The Great One: What Is Wayne Gretzky’s Golf Handicap?
Wayne found success with everything he did. It must have been upsetting when Oprah rejected his proposal.