Longtime Pittsburgh Penguins play-by-play announcer Mike Lange passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the age of 76, in his Pittsburgh home.
Meanwhile, the main reason behind Lange’s passing remains unknown; however, according to some reports, he had been battling an illness.
A multimedia photojournalist, Ed Thompson, wrote, “I like to think back to the healthy and vibrant Mike Lange. He battled illness for so long.“
Josh Yohe, writer for The Athletic, first broke the exclusive news of his tragic passing. Eventually, the Pittsburgh Penguins also confirmed his demise, writing,
The Penguins organization joins the family, friends and fans of legendary broadcaster Mike Lange as we mourn his passing and remember his remarkable life.
Thus far, details surrounding his funeral service and burial haven’t been published. We offer our heartfelt condolence to Mike Lange’s extended family.
Mike Lange Was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001!
The legendary voice of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Mike Lange, became a household name during his nearly five-decade-long successful career with the team.
Born in Sacramento, California, Lange moved to Pittsburgh in 1974 to begin his tenure as the Penguins‘ play-by-play announcer.
Over the next 46 years, he solidified his name as a beloved figure in the hockey community, calling games on both radio and television.
It was Lange’s enthusiasm for the game and his creative catchphrases, such as “scratch my back with a hacksaw” and “get in the fast lane, grandma, the bingo game is ready to roll,” drew fans’ attention.
The NHL is saddened by the passing of long-time @penguins play-by-play broadcaster Mike Lange, recipient of the Hockey Hall of Fame's Foster Hewitt Award in 2001 for outstanding contributions to his profession. Our thoughts are with his family and his many friends in the game. pic.twitter.com/5UiL1JEwnf
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 20, 2025
Lange’s career highlights include calling five Stanley Cup championships for the Penguins and being honored with the Foster Hewitt Award for broadcast excellence in 2001.
Beyond his professional achievements, Lange was known for his kindness. He often would go out of his way to connect with fans.
One touching story recounts how Mike Lange met with a television photographer who was dying from brain cancer. He indeed created a cherished memory for the fan before his passing.
“He beat him like a rented mule.”
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) February 20, 2025
Mike Lange’s legend will live forever 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Nk2S4ZSQX4
After a successful 46-year career, Mike Lange announced his retirement in 2021.
His retirement was influenced by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led him to cut back on game broadcasts in recent seasons.
Despite stepping away from the booth, Lange remained involved with the Penguins. He contributed to commentary and voice work on a limited basis.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- After he retired, the team named the press box at PPG Paints Arena the “Mike Lange Media Level” in his honor.
- Mike Lange attended Sacramento State University.
