Barry Melrose, a former NHL player and coach who became one of the most recognizable voices in hockey broadcasting during his decades-long tenure at ESPN, died on Wednesday. He was 70.
Melrose’s wife, Cindy, confirmed the news to ESPN. The network released a statement honoring the late analyst, describing him as a foundational figure in their hockey coverage whose deep knowledge and charismatic delivery made him a trusted presence for fans.
“For decades, Barry Melrose was one of the most distinctive and trusted voices in hockey,” the statement read. “His knowledge of the game was deep, his candor was refreshing, and his passion was unmistakable.”
Born in Kelvington, Saskatchewan, Canada, Melrose began his playing career after being selected in the second round of the 1976 NHL Draft by the Montreal Canadiens. He made his professional debut with the Winnipeg Jets in 1979 and went on to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings before retiring as a player in 1986.
Transitioning to coaching the following year, Melrose gained prominence for his time with the Los Angeles Kings. He coached the team from 1992 to 1995, leading them to the Stanley Cup Final in 1993 while managing star player Wayne Gretzky.
In 1996, Melrose joined ESPN, where he spent over two decades as an analyst. His career at the network was impacted by health challenges; he received a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 2023 and subsequently retired from broadcasting.
John Buccigross, a longtime ESPN colleague, shared a tribute on X, calling Melrose his “best friend at ESPN” and a big brother figure with solid values. Buccigross revealed that he learned of Melrose’s death while at a rink in Las Vegas preparing for the upcoming season, noting that the setting was fitting for a man whose life was dedicated to hockey.
“A more beloved ESPN institution there has not been,” Buccigross wrote. “We love you, Barry. Forever.”
Melrose is survived by his wife and their two sons, Tyrell and Adrien.
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