PITTSBURGH — Mike Lange, the iconic voice of the Pittsburgh Penguins and a legendary sports broadcaster, passed away at his home in Pittsburgh on Wednesday. He was 76 years old, as confirmed by the team.

Lange last graced the airwaves with his play-by-play commentary during a Penguins game in 2021 when health challenges led him to retire from his long-standing role in the radio booth. Together with Bob Prince, Lange is revered as one of the most cherished broadcasters in the history of Pittsburgh sports. His vibrant goal calls, distinctive baritone voice, and exceptional hockey insight made him a beloved figure in the city. Long before Mario Lemieux and Sidney Crosby became household names, Lange was the shining star of Pittsburgh’s hockey scene.

“He’s a tremendous individual, and his voice is synonymous with our team,” said Crosby in 2021 following Lange’s retirement announcement. “The enthusiasm, emotion, and unique expressions he brought to the game are truly his own. I will miss seeing him around the rink, but his memorable calls will forever be linked to our greatest moments. He will always be part of our franchise.”

Since beginning his tenure with the Penguins in 1974, Lange became a central figure in the Pittsburgh community, attracting as many autograph requests as the team itself. Originally from Sacramento, California, his flamboyant broadcasting style contrasted beautifully with his approachable personality, winning him many friends in local pubs and beyond.

During the Penguins’ challenging years before Lemieux arrived in 1984, fans tuned in not just for the games but for the comfort of Lange’s familiar voice. He formed close relationships with players, and in his later years, Lange shared many conversations with Crosby in the locker room covering topics beyond just hockey. The bond he shared with Lemieux was profound, with Lange’s goal calls forever entwined with Lemieux’s legendary performances.

Despite his illness, Lange wanted to attend Jaromír Jágr’s number retirement ceremony last year but felt uncomfortable due to his condition. Recognizing this, Jágr visited Lange’s home to see him—an affirmation of their close friendship forged during Jágr’s time playing for the Penguins.

Known affectionately as “The Hall of Famer” or “Mikey” by those who knew him best, Lange earned his place in the broadcaster’s wing of the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001. His memorable calls have become a part of Pittsburgh’s narrative, including famous phrases like:

• “Elvis has just left the building”
• “It’s a hockey night in Pittsburgh”
• “Michael, Michael motorcycle”
• “Look out Loretta”
• “Buy Sam a drink and get his dog one, too”
• “Get in the fast lane, grandma, the bingo game is ready to roll”

Much of Lange’s legendary broadcast career featured Paul Steigerwald as his color commentator, alongside collaborations with Eddie Olczyk and Bob Errey. His innate understanding of hockey, coupled with a remarkable ability to anticipate the game, set him apart as a truly gifted commentator.

“While everyone loves his catchphrases and humor, what truly distinguished Mike was his in-depth knowledge of the game and that incredible voice,” Steigerwald noted in 2021. “He was the complete package and an unmatched talent.”

Another broadcasting legend, Mike “Doc” Emrick, admired Lange greatly, praising his intuitive grasp of the game and the experience he offered fans at home, whether on TV or the radio.

In his later years, Lange remained a dedicated supporter of the Penguins and served as a mentor to his successors, Josh Getzoff and Steve Mears, always providing support and valuable insights to enhance their broadcasts.

His closest bond in the broadcasting realm was with Phil Bourque, a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Penguins. Bourque often considered Lange a dear friend. Recently, when Bourque temporarily took over play-by-play duties, he sought Lange’s permission to use one of his famous goal calls, to which Lange enthusiastically agreed.

Though the Penguins lost that game, Crosby scored the only goal, and Bourque fittingly exclaimed Lange’s catchphrase: “Get in the fast lane, grandma, the bingo game is ready to roll,” a heartfelt tribute to his impact.

For generations of fans, Mike Lange’s voice will resonate, reminding them of countless unforgettable moments.

(Photo: Justin Berl / Getty Images)