On February 19, 2025, 76-year-old Mike Lange, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ renowned play-by-play announcer, died. Over his 46-year tenure, Lange’s voice came to define Penguins hockey with his energetic commentary and memorable catchphrases.
View this post on Instagram
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on March 3, 1948, in Sacramento, California, Mike Lange was enthralled with radio while still a student at Sacramento State University. His first hockey game in 1969 set off his love of the game. He began his broadcasting career with the Phoenix Roadrunners of the Western Hockey League in 1970 and later called games for the San Diego Gulls in 1973-74.
Joining the Pittsburgh Penguins
Lange’s association with the Pittsburgh Penguins began in 1974 when he was hired as the team’s radio play-by-play announcer. Following a brief spell with the Washington Diplomats football club in 1975–76, he went back to the Penguins in 1976 and became a major focal point for decades of team broadcasts. Both players and supporters loved him for his passionate and distinctive commenting approach.
Signature Phrases and Broadcasting Style
Mike Lange was honored for his unique and vivid emotions that injected energy into the game. Among his most often-used catchphrases are:
- “He beat him like a rented mule.”
- “It’s a hockey night in Pittsburgh!”
- “Ladies and gentlemen, Elvis has left the building.”
- “He smoked him like a cheap cigar.”
- “Slap me silly, Sidney.”
These phrases became a beloved part of Penguins’ game nights, capturing the excitement and emotion of the sport.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Over his career, Lange provided analysis for all five of the Penguins’ Stanley Cup triumphs in 1991, 1992, 2009, 2016, and 2017. The Hockey Hall of Fame recognized his exceptional contributions to hockey broadcasting in 2001 with the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award. Lange’s voice also reached beyond the rink; he made a cameo appearance as himself in the 1995 action film “Sudden Death,” set during a fictional Stanley Cup Final in Pittsburgh.
Retirement and Legacy
In August 2021, after 46 years with the Penguins, Mike Lange announced his retirement from broadcasting. The team honored him in October 2021, marking his 50th year in broadcasting. Penguins fans and the broader hockey community remember him not only for his unique voice and memorable catchphrases but also for his passion and dedication to the sport. The Pittsburgh Penguins released a statement mourning his passing:
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
“Mike Lange was a wordsmith – a magician behind the mic. The Californian quickly became a quintessential Pittsburgher, and his colorful calls and smooth cadence brought Penguins hockey to life.”
Mike Lange’s legacy as the voice of the Pittsburgh Penguins will continue to resonate with fans and the hockey community for years to come.