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The world of news and sports has just lost an icon, as longtime TV broadcaster Tom Larson has died at the age of 84. This beloved sports broadcaster and fan favorite has left behind a legacy marked by his devotion to Boston sports and his impact on the world of broadcasting.
Tom’s journey in sports broadcasting began in Illinois and Lansing, Michigan before making a move to Boston during the late 1960s. His tenure with the Bruins’ television crew started in the 1969-70 season as part of an era marked by their success with championships in 1970 and 1972.
He then served as the sports director at WHDH radio during the 1980s before joining NESN shortly after its inception where he continued hosting for Red Sox games and writing for various publications.
RiP, legendary Bruins TV studio host Tom Larson.
In 1981, he vowed not to shave off his beard until the Bruins won the Cup…,it only took 30 years. pic.twitter.com/Ob8sNnXCCm
— Boston Radio Watch®️ (@bostonradio) November 25, 2023
One of Tom’s most memorable moments was his unique pledge concerning the Boston Bruins team when he vowed not to shave his beard until they clinched another Stanley Cup victory. Despite expectations that this moment would come soon, it wasn’t until after his retirement following their 2011 win over Vancouver Canucks that Tom was able to finally end 39 years of waiting—and sporting a full beard.
“During the mid-70s, I’d grown a beard, and there was a lot of negative reaction to it,” Larson said in 2011, according to Fox News. “They were calling me ‘Pinko’, ‘Commie’ and [saying] how they couldn’t enjoy watching the hockey game because Larson had a beard and all of this. But it struck me that if I said I wouldn’t shave it until the Bruins won the Stanley Cup, the reaction would be different. It would be, ‘Yeah Larson, alright!’ Now it’s connected with Bruins success!”
The passing of Tom Larson marks an immense loss for both fans and colleagues alike who were inspired by him over four decades as well as those who looked forward to many more years ahead. Our thoughts are with his family who can take solace knowing that his legacy will forever be remembered throughout all areas touched by him from broadcasting excellence to unyielding commitment to Boston teams.
