Legendary disc jockey Red Robinson is speaking out about the decision to rebrand his namesake theatre in Coquitlam, and sending a heartfelt message to his supporters. Robinson told CTV News he’s disappointed the Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is dropping his name off the Red Robinson Show Theatre, where it’s hung since the venue opened in 2006. “I thought I would have a legacy; there would be something out there after I’m gone that said, ‘Well, he came and he did some good and entertained us,’” the 76-year-old said. “What else can I say about it? It is totally disappointing.” Robinson’s legacy is already disappearing fast: crews have torn down the main sign bearing his name, and another has been ripped off the building. Great Canadian Gaming’s Chuck Keeling said the remaining Red Robinson signs will be gone soon, as the adjoining Boulevard Casino is rebranded as the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver. “In the next couple weeks, the entire facility will be done, including the removal of all signs,” Keeling said. When news about the rebranding became public, outraged fans started an online petition to keep the Red Robinson name. To date, it’s been signed more than 7,100 times. Robinson said he’s been comforted by the support for the petition, as well as the thousands of emails he’s received from complete strangers. “The outpouring has been incredible and we’re flabbergasted,” he said. “Everyone who sent their letters or emails of support, I thank you for it. It’s just that the corporation’s gone off in a different direction. And I’m a realist. That’s the way it is.” Among those upset by the rebranding was crooner Michael Buble, who told CTV News he was “livid” about the decision earlier this month. Great Canadian Gaming said it’s firm in its decision to rebrand the theatre as a Hard Rock property, with a grand opening set for Dec. 6. “We put a lot of thought, very serious thought into this decision. This was not a knee-jerk reaction. We’re committed,” Keeling said. Robinson’s DJ career dates back to the 1950s. He was elected into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleaveland, Ohio in 1995. With a report from CTV British Columbia’s Scott Roberts
