Montreal, QC – Rodger Brulotte, the iconic voice of the Montreal Expos and a beloved figure in Quebec baseball, has died at the age of 79. Brulotte passed away on March 20, 2026, after a six-month battle with cancer, according to multiple reports. His passing marks the finish of an era for baseball fans in Quebec and beyond.
Brulotte’s career with the Expos began in 1969, initially in sales and marketing and quickly evolved to encompass scouting and public relations. He became a familiar voice to generations of fans, most notably as a color commentator alongside Jacques Doucet on CKAC beginning in 1984, and later with Denis Casavant on RDS until the team’s relocation in 2004. He continued to call baseball games, later broadcasting Toronto Blue Jays games on TVA Sports.
However, Brulotte was perhaps best known for his signature call, “Bonsoir, elle est partie!” (“Good night, it’s gone!”), enthusiastically delivered whenever an Expos player hit a home run. The phrase transcended baseball, becoming a popular expression in Quebec to celebrate any significant achievement or departure.
The diagnosis of a cancerous tumor in his spine came in September 2025, just before the start of the Major League Baseball playoffs, according to Radio-Canada. He underwent surgery, but the disease ultimately proved insurmountable.
Despite the grim prognosis, Brulotte maintained a remarkable spirit. A close friend recounted that when asked about retirement, Brulotte would retort, “What are *you* going to do if you get the axe? Sit at home with nothing to do? You’ll see how boring This proves when you’re not in action. Don’t stop, keep going!” This unwavering passion for the game and for life defined his career.
In the final months of his life, Brulotte remained engaged with the sports world, following the Montreal Canadiens and the NFL, and offering his typically insightful commentary. He was a dedicated supporter of amateur sports, actively contributing to baseball and hockey programs at the youth level. He also devoted considerable time and energy to charitable causes, including the Fondation pour l’encouragement scolaire, and was recognized with the médaille de l’Assemblée nationale by Premier François Legault for his philanthropic work.
Those who knew him described Brulotte as a generous and approachable man, deeply connected to the community. He was a familiar face on the streets of Montreal, always taking time to chat with fans. Even during his illness, he maintained his sense of humor, reportedly joking, “If I travel, you can say, ‘Bonsoir, il est parti!’”
Brulotte’s broadcasting career spanned decades, and he witnessed firsthand the highs and lows of the Expos franchise. He played a role in the early scouting efforts that brought players like Gary Carter, Steve Rogers, and Larry Parrish to Montreal, as he noted in a 2024 interview with Le 76. He also contributed to the creation of the team’s beloved mascot, Youppi!
He was nominated for a Gemini Award in both 1991 and 1993, recognizing his excellence in sports broadcasting. Even as recently as 2025, he was scheduled to broadcast the Blue Jays’ World Series games alongside Denis Casavant before his health forced him to step back, as reported by Wikipedia.
Rodger Brulotte’s legacy extends far beyond the baseball diamond. He was a cultural icon in Quebec, a storyteller, and a champion of the community. His voice, his passion, and his unwavering spirit will be deeply missed.
The passing of Rodger Brulotte leaves a void in the Quebec sports landscape. His contributions to baseball and his dedication to the community will not be forgotten. He is survived by his partner, Pascale, with whom he shared 15 years of his life.
Details regarding a memorial service have not yet been announced. Fans wishing to share their condolences can leave messages on the TVA Sports and Radio-Canada websites.
