Renowned sports broadcaster Dan Hicks has sadly passed away at the age of 64. His wife, fellow broadcaster Hannah Storm, made the announcement on Thursday, November 12, revealing that he died due to an acute illness. The news has come as a shock, reverberating through the sports community and among fans across the globe.
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Hicks dedicated over three decades of his career to NBC, where his voice became synonymous with major sporting events. Since joining the network in 1992, he became a staple in the commentary booth, covering a myriad of sports including golf, tennis, and both swimming and alpine skiing during the Olympic Games. His contributions to broadcasting have left an indelible mark and have set a high standard within the industry.
Al Michaels, a veteran sportscaster and Hicks’ colleague, was visibly moved while paying tribute to his late friend during Thursday Night Football. Michaels expressed his shock at the news and reflected on Hicks’ significant impact in the field. He recalled Hicks’s talent for capturing the essence of memorable moments in sports, highlighting his ability to elevate the viewing experience with his commentary. “He was genial, compassionate, and great company,” Michaels stated, offering heartfelt condolences to Storm and their daughters during this tough time.
Storm described Hicks as a devoted husband and a loving father to their three daughters. In her emotional social media statement, she conveyed the immense sense of loss felt by those who knew him. “His loss is immeasurable,” she wrote, elaborating on his character, which resonated with both warmth and humour. Storm recalled how Hicks had a unique ability to light up a room, bringing joy and energy to those around him.
The late broadcaster was known for balancing a demanding work schedule, yet he made time to support his family. Just weeks prior to his passing, Hicks was seen cheering on one of their daughters during the Chicago Marathon, showcasing his dedication as a father. He was gearing up to commentate on this weekend’s Notre Dame game, a role he had filled for the past seven seasons. Following his death, Jason Benetti, who currently voices NBC’s Sunday Night Baseball, will take over the commentary alongside analyst Jason Garrett for the game against Boston College on Saturday, November 14.
Tributes poured in from numerous athletes who had been influenced by Hicks’s work. Prominent swimmer Michael Phelps, who was closely associated with Hicks over his Olympic career, expressed his grief in a heartfelt Instagram post. Phelps reflected on how Hicks’s voice became a comforting constant throughout his journey as an athlete. “Dan had one of those voices. A voice that so many of us grew up listening to,” he shared, emphasising how Hicks’s impact transcended mere commentary into a personal connection.
As the sports world mourns the loss of Dan Hicks, memories of his contributions will surely live on. His legacy includes not only the iconic moments he helped narrate but also the friendships he forged along the way. Colleagues and fans alike are celebrating a life dedicated to sportsmanship, storytelling, and connection.
Hicks’s remarkable career has left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege to witness his work. He will be remembered as more than just a voice in the announcing booth; he was a figure who embodied passion and dedication, paving the way for future generations in sports broadcasting. The tributes serve not only as a testament to his talent but also as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many through their work.
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