What Happened to Mike Lange? Penguins Broadcaster Passes Away

The renowned Pittsburgh Penguins broadcaster, Mike Lange, has sadly passed away at the age of 76. On February 19, 2025, news of his death was made public when the team announced his passing in an official statement. For almost five decades, Lange was cherished for his iconic broadcasts and lively character within the hockey community.

Here’s what we know so far about Mike Lange’s death.

Mike Lange passes away at 76, claims report

Mike Lange, the longtime Pittsburgh Penguins broadcaster, has passed away at the age of 76.

The Penguins announced Mike Lange’s passing, not specifying the reason. They lauded Hall of Fame broadcaster Mike Lange as a magical voice on the microphone, who breathed life into the game through his distinctive phrases.

Mike Lange, who served as the Penguins’ announcer for 46 years, retired in 2021 after initially joining the team in 1974 and then returning a year later. He stayed with the organization for many decades, and during that time, his commentary became the musical backdrop to the Penguins’ most iconic moments, including their five Stanley Cup victories. The Penguins’ announcement highlighted that “only Mike could make even the biggest hockey stars seem more enchanting simply by using his voice.

2001 saw Mike Lange’s significant impact on hockey being honored at the Hockey Hall of Fame with his induction, and he was bestowed with the Foster Hewitt Award in recognition of his exceptional broadcasting skills. Over time, his unique phrases like “Elvis has left the building” and “Michael, Michael Motorcycle” gained popularity among enthusiastic hockey fans (as reported by CBS News). For countless generations of Penguins supporters, Lange’s voice was a defining element.

Mike Lange, a renowned broadcaster, has been associated with Penguins’ championships in 1991, 1992, 2009, 2016, and 2017. Legends like Lemieux, Jagr, Crosby, and Malkin were part of these victories. Phil Bourque, his longtime partner on the broadcast, affectionately referred to Lange as “one of the kindest, most loyal, and loving individuals I’ve ever encountered.

Mike Lange’s distinctive voice extended beyond hockey, making an impact on pop culture as he featured in the 1995 movie “Sudden Death.” Upon his retirement in 2021, the Penguins acknowledged him, commemorating his remarkable 50-year career in broadcasting. In his own words during retirement, Lange expressed, “I didn’t have my passion for what I’ve always loved taken away from me.” (Associated Press)

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2025-02-20 09:10