Beloved Pittsburgh Sports Broadcaster Stan Savran Obituary: Passes Away at 76
Pittsburgh mourns the loss of Stan Savran, a legendary sports broadcaster whose career spanned nearly five decades and became intertwined with the city’s sports legacy. The announcement of Savran’s passing was made by WTAE-TV, where he served as a sports anchor during the 1980s. While an official cause of death was not disclosed, Savran had been open about his battle with lung cancer in recent years. He passed away at the age of 76, residing in Upper St. Clair, a suburb of Pittsburgh.
Affectionately known as the “Godfather” of Pittsburgh sports, Savran arrived in the city in 1976 and quickly became an integral part of its sports culture. Starting in radio, he transitioned to television and occasionally contributed as a newspaper columnist. His renowned nightly show, “SportsBeat,” co-hosted alongside Guy Junker on regional cable from 1991 to 2009, became essential viewing for passionate fans in the sports-crazed city. Many callers would begin their conversations with the endearing phrase, “Stan, Guy, love the show,” a sentiment that Savran carried with him long after the show concluded.
Stan Savran was not only known for his tireless work ethic and extensive sports knowledge but also for his straightforward and opinionated delivery. His unwavering commitment to the profession made him one of the most trusted voices in Pittsburgh’s bustling media landscape. Savran’s versatility allowed him to take on various roles, including serving as the pre-game host for Pittsburgh Penguins and Pittsburgh Pirates broadcasts, as well as hosting several iterations of his eponymous radio show.
The Pittsburgh Pirates expressed their admiration, tweeting, “We loved the show, but more importantly, Stan, we loved you.” Savran’s involvement with the Pittsburgh Steelers spanned multiple capacities, from contributions to their radio network to his role in the team’s Hall of Honor committee. Steelers President Art Rooney II paid tribute to Savran, highlighting his genuine character, unwavering candor, and profound impact on the city and Western Pennsylvania.
We loved the show, but more importantly, Stan, we loved you. pic.twitter.com/ULDNyFkNlS
— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) June 13, 2023
Known for his remarkable memory, Savran was a rarity in the industry, delivering his broadcasts without the aid of a teleprompter. His old-school approach and dedication to the craft endeared him to colleagues and fans alike. Even as he entered his 70s, Stan remained a fixture at Steelers home games and continued his work with intermission and postgame shows for the Penguins. His daily radio show persisted until his health declined earlier this year, yet he remained a sought-after guest on other programs, often hosted by individuals he had mentored throughout their careers.
R.I.P. 🙏 https://t.co/RqQSdZPCEJ
— KDKA (@KDKA) June 13, 2023
Stan Savran’s legacy extends beyond his contributions to Pittsburgh’s media landscape; he became an icon within the city itself. Tributes poured in from across the sports community, with Pittsburgh sports radio host Mark Madden emphasizing Savran’s status as a true peer, a cherished friend, and an exceptional individual. Savran’s impact on the industry will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to doing things the right way.
RIP Stan Savran. Not just a Pittsburgh media icon but a Pittsburgh icon, period. A good friend, true peer and thoroughly good man. It’s a honor to have known& worked with him. “Love the show” will long be remembered. Stan did it right.
— Mark Madden (@MarkMaddenX) June 13, 2023
