The Legendary Voice of Pittsburgh
Mike Lange, the cherished and irreplaceable voice of the Pittsburgh Penguins, has left us at the age of 76. The team confirmed his passing on Wednesday, though no cause was specified. Lange’s tenure with the Penguins spanned nearly five decades, a period during which he not only witnessed but narrated the transformation of the franchise from a struggling also-ran to a powerhouse that clinched the Stanley Cup five times. His unique style and quirky sayings became the quintessential soundtrack for some of the sport’s most electrifying moments, from the heydays of Mario Lemieux and Jaromir Jagr to the contemporary reign of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Phil Bourque, a former Penguin and long-time radio booth partner, aptly described Lange as “one of the kindest, most loyal and loving humans I’ve ever met.” His death has left a profound void in the hearts of Penguins fans and the broader hockey community.
A Master of the Craft
Mike Lange was more than just a broadcaster; he was a wordsmith, a magician behind the mic who could transform the ordinary into the extraordinary with his voice. The Penguins honored his legacy by stating, “Only Mike could make the biggest names in hockey seem more magical with just his voice.” His delivery was legendary, marked by expressive enthusiasm and a flair for the dramatic. Fans on social media have been quick to share their memories, one recalling the thrill of listening to Lange call the games of Lemieux and Jagr, describing it as “a lot of electric nights.” Another fan, referencing the late Rick Jeanneret, the iconic voice of the Buffalo Sabres, poignantly remarked, “The greatest of all time. I hope him and Rick Jeanneret get to call hockey from the heavens for the rest of eternity.” Lange’s impact on hockey broadcasting is immeasurable, and his words continue to resonate with those who tuned in over the years.
The Hockey Hall of Fame
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the game, Mike Lange was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001, receiving the Foster Hewitt Award for broadcast excellence. This accolade was a testament to his skill and dedication, as well as the enduring impact of his work. Lange’s distinctive phrases, such as "It’s a hockey night in Pittsburgh," "Elvis has left the building," and "he beat him like a rented mule," became synonymous with Penguins hockey. These catchphrases not only heightened the excitement of the games but also endeared him to fans, making his broadcasts a must-listen event. When the Penguins clinched their second consecutive Stanley Cup in 1992, Lange’s celebratory call, "Lord Stanley, Lord Stanley, get me the brandy," captured the euphoria of the moment and became part of hockey lore.
A Journey Through Hockey
Born in Sacramento, California, on March 3, 1948, Mike Lange’s journey to becoming the voice of the Penguins began in the Western Hockey League. He made a brief foray into Pittsburgh in 1974 before the team faced financial difficulties, leading him to leave temporarily. However, his fate remained intertwined with the Penguins, and he returned to Pittsburgh in 1976. From that point on, Lange didn’t miss a single game for the next 30 years, cementing his role as the lead broadcaster on both the team’s television and radio networks. His unwavering commitment and passion for hockey were evident in every call, and his broadcasts played a crucial role in making the Penguins one of the NHL’s most celebrated franchises. Fans and fellow sportscasters alike often mimicked his distinctive phrases, a testament to his widespread influence and the infectious nature of his style.
Beyond the Booth
Mike Lange’s influence extended beyond the broadcast booth. He appeared as a broadcaster in the action movie “Sudden Death,” set against the backdrop of a Stanley Cup matchup between the Penguins and the Chicago Blackhawks in 1995. One fan on X noted, “The first time I heard Mike Lange was in 1995’s ‘Sudden Death’, providing the play-by-play, building the suspense. After realizing he was playing himself, I suspect the producers wanted him, and had to include the Pens in the movie to get him. Thank you, Mike!” This cameo not only showcased Lange’s versatility but also his deep connection to the Penguins and the city of Pittsburgh. His ability to bring the game to life through his voice was so renowned that even Hollywood sought to capture a piece of his magic.
A Grateful Legacy
In 2006, Lange moved to the radio side full-time, continuing to call the Penguins’ games and capturing their Stanley Cup victories in 2009, 2016, and 2017. His retirement in August 2021, after 46 years with the Penguins, marked the end of an era. The team paid tribute to his long and illustrious career, noting that October 2021 marked his 50th year in broadcasting. In a statement accompanying his retirement, Lange reflected on his journey, saying, “I didn’t get cheated in my quest to do what I have always loved.” His words encapsulate a life dedicated to hockey, one that brought joy and excitement to countless fans. Mike Lange’s legacy will forever be intertwined with the rich history of the Pittsburgh Penguins, and his voice will continue to echo through the memories of those who were lucky enough to experience the magic of his broadcasts.
