A recent video of Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard has sparked debate online after an interaction with autograph seekers outside Ball Arena in Denver went viral. The incident occurred on November 23, 2025, prior to the Blackhawks' game against the Colorado Avalanche.

The video shows Bedard walking with teammates when approached by a group of adults holding copies of the 2023 issue of The Hockey News' Draft Preview, which features Bedard on the cover. One individual repeatedly asks Bedard to sign his magazine, emphasizing that he has "never gotten your autograph before" and requesting personalization. Bedard, seemingly trying to politely decline, responds, "I've got to go" while attempting to move past the group. He ultimately scribbles on two covers before moving on.

The video, filmed by one of the autograph seekers, was subsequently posted on social media, igniting a wave of reactions. One account criticized Bedard, accusing him of showing "zero humanity". However, many online users defended Bedard, pointing out that the autograph seekers were likely resellers intending to profit from the signatures. Some users noted that NHL players are frequently hounded by the same individuals seeking autographs for resale purposes. The request to personalize the autograph also raised suspicion, as personalization reduces the resale value.

Bedard is currently having a strong season, with 13 goals and 31 points in 22 games. This places him among the top ten highest scorers in the NHL.

This isn't the first time Bedard's interactions with fans have made headlines. In October 2023, a video circulated of Bedard playfully declining to sign a Montreal Canadiens jersey for a young fan. At the time, Bedard was praised for his charismatic personality and witty remarks.

The recent incident highlights the challenges faced by high-profile athletes who are constantly in the public eye. Balancing fan interactions with personal boundaries can be difficult, especially when dealing with individuals motivated by profit. Some observers have pointed out the uncomfortable nature of being stalked and filmed for autographs. Others emphasize the pressure athletes face to fulfill autograph requests, particularly given endorsement deals with companies like Fanatics. In 2024, a fan complained about the quality of a signed bobblehead purchased through Fanatics, leading to further discussion about the demands placed on athletes to constantly produce autographs.

While some have criticized Bedard's actions, many have come to his defense, arguing that he was put in an awkward position by persistent autograph seekers. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding athlete-fan interactions in the age of social media.