“I’ve had over 50 extraordinary years playing, coaching and analyzing the world’s greatest game, hockey. It’s now time to hang up my skates and focus on my health, my family, including my supportive wife Cindy, and whatever comes next,” the 67-year-old said in a statement Tuesday. “I’m beyond grateful for my hockey career, and to have called ESPN home for almost 30 years. Thanks for the incredible memories and I’ll now be cheering for you from the stands.”
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said, “Barry is a unique, one-of-a-kind person. And hockey on ESPN won’t be the same without him.
“For nearly 50 years, as a player, coach and broadcaster, Barry‘s gigantic personality and trademark style have made our game bigger, more exciting and more entertaining. His love for hockey is obvious and infectious. And it is impossible to have a conversation with him without a smile on your face.
“Barry, we wish you well in this fight and know you will give it everything you have — as you always do.”
The news was first reported by Melrose’s broadcast partner, John Buccigross, who said on social media, “I’ve worked with Barry at ESPN for over a quarter century. Cold beers and hearty laughs in smokey cigar bars. A razor-sharp wit, he was always early & looked like a million bucks. I love him. I’ll miss him…”
Who is Barry Melrose illness?
Melrose is a Canadian–American broadcaster and former professional ice hockey player and head coach.
Barry Melrose biograpghy
John Melrose, a native of Kelvington, Saskatchewan, was raised on a farm just outside the town by his parents Norrie and James Melrose. Notably, he is the cousin of former NHL players Wendel Clark and Joe Kocur, as well as longtime minor league forward Kerry Clark. Currently, Melrose resides in Glens Falls, New York with his wife, Cindy, and together they have two sons, Tyrell and Adrien.
It is worth mentioning that Melrose became an American citizen in March 1998. Throughout his career, Melrose has had the opportunity to showcase his talent in various minor television and movie roles. One notable appearance was as a guest star in a season 5 episode of Spin City, titled “Hey Judith”.
Additionally, he made appearances in the second Slapshot movie, Slap Shot 2: Breaking the Ice, and the movie Mystery, Alaska alongside Russell Crowe. Notably, during his tenure as the head coach of the Kings, Melrose was featured in a series of Tony Robbins infomercials. Melrose’s professional hockey career spanned both the World Hockey Association (WHA) and the National Hockey League (NHL).
Following his retirement as a player, he transitioned into coaching and is most recognized for his role as the coach of the Los Angeles Kings during their memorable run to the 1993 Stanley Cup Finals. Until 2023, Melrose served as a long-time commentator and hockey analyst for ESPN, while also contributing to the NHL Network.
Is Barry Melrose suffering from Parkinson’s disease?
Former NHL coach and player Barry Melrose, who has been an ESPN analyst since 1996, announced his retirement from the league after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
Melrose was “a tremendous leader who brought an incredible amount of personality to our hockey club and organization,” according to a social media statement made by Los Angeles Kings president Luc Robitaille, who played under Melrose when he coached the Kings from 1992 to 1995. His thunderous chuckle is unmatched.
According to the National Institute on Aging, Parkinson’s disease is a brain ailment that results in unintentional or uncontrollable movements including shaking, stiffness, and problems with balance and coordination.
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, around one million Americans have Parkinson’s disease. The World Health Organization estimates that the condition affects more than 8.5 million individuals globally.
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