Mike Lange, the iconic voice of the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins for nearly 50 years, has passed away at the age of 76. The team expressed their sorrow upon learning of Lange’s passing on Wednesday night, stating, “The Hall of Famer’s voice is synonymous with the biggest calls in franchise history, including all five Stanley Cup Championships. His unique one-liners and knack for anticipating game-changing plays set him apart from other announcers. Only Mike could make the biggest names in hockey seem even more magical with just his voice.”
Further recognizing Lange’s impact, the statement added, “Mike was much more than a legendary broadcaster; he was respected by players and coaches and beloved by fans. Because of him, Hockey Nights in Pittsburgh had the entire city ‘smilin’ like a butcher’s dog.’”
The Penguins organization joins the family, friends and fans of legendary broadcaster Mike Lange as we mourn his passing and remember his remarkable life. pic.twitter.com/UzQ2KREeWQ
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) February 20, 2025
In a reflection on Lange’s significance to the city and the team, Josh Yohe of The Athletic noted, “Lange last called a Penguins game in 2021, when his considerable health issues forced him to step down from the radio booth. Along with Bob Prince, Lange is widely considered the most beloved broadcaster in Pittsburgh sports history. His colorful goal calls, baritone pipes, and uncanny feel for hockey turned him into a Pittsburgh legend. In the years before Mario Lemieux and Sidney Crosby became household names in Pittsburgh, the city’s hockey franchise had one star — the play-by-play man.”
X user Dante Shuriken also shared a nostalgic video from TSN, highlighting Lange’s impressive calls from 2009.
In honor of Mike Lange, here’s a TSN top 10 made in 2009 of his top 10 calls. The best to ever do it. pic.twitter.com/LS5K0puwez
— DanteShuriken (@DanteShuriken) February 20, 2025
Lange’s career with the Penguins spanned from 1976 to 2006, covering games on both radio and television. After the 2005-06 season, Fox Sports Pittsburgh (now SportsNet Pittsburgh) did not renew his contract. Shortly thereafter, Lange returned to the radio booth, where he continued to call games until 2021.
