The Mr. Hockey story is coming to a television set near you soon.

"Mr. Hockey: the Gordie Howe Story" will make its U.S. television premiere at 9 p.m. Saturday, May 4 on the Hallmark Channel.

Michael Shanks ("Stargate SG-1") stars as Howe, the legendary former Detroit Red Wings forward who retired in 1980 at age 52 as the NHL's all-time leader in games played (1,767), goals (801) and points (1,850).

Howe spent the first 25 seasons of his career with the Red Wings before retiring and then returning to the ice in 1973-74 to play for the WHA's Houston Aeros with sons Mark and Marty. He was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1972 – eight years before his career finally ended.

Kathleen Robertson ("Beverly Hills 90210") plays Howe's late wife, Colleen, to whom the film is dedicated.

Relatively unknown actors Andrew Herr and Dylan Playfair play Mark and Marty, respectively.

The film was produced in association with Mike Ilitch Jr. Productions. Ilitch is one of the executive producers.

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