ESPN announced Melrose’s death Wednesday after his wife notified Steve Lacy, a former ESPN colleague.Melrose was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2023, prompting his retirement from the network.
He joined ESPN in 1996 and spent nearly three decades with the network."For decades, Barry Melrose was one of the most distinctive and trusted voices in hockey," the network said in a statement."His knowledge of the game was deep, his candor was refreshing, and his passion was unmistakable.
He was a foundational part of ESPN's hockey coverage, and fans and teammates truly appreciated his entertaining delivery and charismatic personality."BILL RASMUSSEN, ESPN FOUNDER WHO CONCEIVED A CABLE NETWORK DEVOTED TO SPORTS, DEAD AT 93ESPN broadcaster Barry Melrose looks on during Game 6 of the 2022 Stanley Cup Final at Amalie Arena on June 26, 2022, in Tampa, Florida.(Christian Petersen/Getty Images)"We send our deepest condolences to his loved ones.
He always kept it interesting and he will be missed."Melrose stepped away from sports broadcasting in 2008 for a brief return to coaching, serving as head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning for 16 games.Melrose compiled an 84-108-29 record as an NHL head coach.Melrose had a relatable everyman’s broadcasting style, bringing a sense of humor to his insights, and was easily recognized by his goatee and slicked-backed hair.THE CRAIG CARTON SHOW–UNFILTERED, UNAPOLOGETIC AND UNMISSABLE.
DOWNLOAD HIS DAILY PODCAST NOW!"From the flowing locks of his distinctive mullet to the flared lapels of his trademark long suit coats, Barry Melrose cut an unmistakable figure whenever you were fortunate enough to run into him at a rink or catch him on your television screen," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement."You were even more fortunate if you engaged him in conversation or listened to his analysis because he never failed to boost your love of the game of hockey."NHL Network host Barry Melrose appears on set during a practice ...