Mike Lange, the iconic voice of the Pittsburgh Penguins, died at 76 on Wednesday. Known for his colorful phrases like “He beat him like a rented mule,” Lange retired in 2021 after 46 years of calling Penguins’ games on radio and TV. He won the Foster Hewitt Award in 2001 for excellence in hockey broadcasting.
Lange’s career spanned decades, starting as the voice of the Phoenix Roadrunners in the Western Hockey League in 1970. He called games for several teams before joining the Penguins in 1974. The organization remembered Lange as a “wordsmith” and “magician behind the mic,” whose calls brought hockey to life.
The Penguins and NHL were saddened by his passing, citing his contributions to the game and his role in making the biggest names in hockey seem more magical with just his voice. Lange is remembered by fans and players alike for his smooth cadence and unique one-liners that set him apart from other announcers.
Source: https://www.nhl.com/news/legendary-pittsburgh-penguins-broadcaster-mike-lange-dies-at-76