Oilers Fans Send Support as Anthem Singer Shares Unfortunate Health News

Edmonton Oilers anthem singer Robert Clark, a beloved voice at Rogers Place since 2013, shared an emotional health update with fans on Sunday, announcing that he’s been diagnosed with hairy cell leukemia, a rare but highly treatable form of cancer.

You can see his video update to fans below:

A little personal life update for everyone. Send positive vibes if you can! #HairyCellLeukemia #Leukemia #PositiveVibesOnly #FuckCancer #IGotThis pic.twitter.com/TXvT2Hawvm

— Robert Clark (@RobClarkTenor) October 20, 2025

In a heartfelt video posted to social media, Clark explained that he began feeling severe joint pain back in August, prompting a series of medical tests. “Long story short, after a whole bunch of blood tests, an ultrasound, and a bone marrow biopsy, I’ve been diagnosed with hairy cell leukemia,” Clark said. “It sounds kind of worse than it is. Nobody wants to be told they have cancer, but it’s a very, very treatable type.”

Clark shared that his treatment is expected to begin around November 10 and will last roughly eight to ten weeks. While it’s not considered curable, his doctors have told him that treatment can lead to an almost indefinite remission.

Known for his powerful operatic voice and heartfelt renditions of O Canada, Clark has become a fixture of Oilers home games, often singing among fans in the stands — a tradition that began during the team’s 2017 playoff run.

The Sherwood Park native says the most challenging part of the diagnosis has been the fatigue and the need to stay cautious due to a weakened immune system. “I don’t go out much just to avoid getting anything if I can,” he said. “When you see me next, I’ll probably fist bump instead of shake hands.”

Despite the difficult news, Clark’s message was filled with gratitude and positivity. “The only thing I ask people for is just send your positive vibes,” he said. “I’ve got a pretty good support system, and I’m very optimistic. My specialist knows a ton about this, and he’s really put my mind at ease.”

Clark hopes not to miss many games, and he says he’s planned his treatments as best he can around the team’s home schedule. “The first week is going to suck,” he noted, “but it just gets better and better.”

For more information about hairy cell leukemia, Clark encouraged fans to visit www.hairycellleukemia.org — and thanked everyone for their continued support: “Love you all, and yeah, we’ll see you around.”

We join many fans who sent well-wishes and positive vibes to Robert today and has he goes through the treatment process.

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