Jack Edwards announces retirement
(Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire)

After an illustrious 19-year tenure as the voice of the Boston Bruins, Jack Edwards has announced his retirement effective at the conclusion of the 2023-24 NHL playoffs.

The 67-year-old New England native, known for his passionate and colorful commentary, will be stepping away from the broadcast booth due to challenges with his speech.

Edwards, who has been calling Bruins games on NESN since 2005, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to live out his dream. “I retire from broadcasting not with a sense of sorrow, but with a heart full of gratitude for the 19-year-long thrill ride,” he stated in a press release.

“I owe my career, my pursuit of happiness, to the love and support of my family. I extend my deepest appreciation to every member of the Bruins and NESN for your unwavering loyalty, enabling me to realize and live out a lifelong aspiration, soaring above the ice.”

Here’s Edwards’ full statement:

“I grew up a Bruins fan, and who had more fun than us over the last two decades? In collaboration with Bruins and NESN leadership, I recently decided that the time has come for me to finish my shift as the voice of the Boston Bruins. I am no longer able to attain the standards I set for myself, to honor the fans, the players, the Bruins organization and NESN with the best they all deserve. I retire from broadcasting notwith a heavy heart, but gratefulness for a 19-year-long joyride. I owe my career, my own pursuit of happiness, to the love and support of my family. I thank every member of the Bruins and NESN for your loyalty, helping me to achieve and live out a lifetime goal, high above the ice.”

Legacy and Controversy

Edwards has been known throughout his career for his unbridled enthusiasm and unique phrases, endearing him to Bruins fans. However, his aggressive style also drew criticism at times, mainly when it came to his opinions on opponents and officials.

One notable incident involved current Bruin Pat Maroon, who was playing for the Tampa Bay Lightning at the time. Edwards made comments about Maroon’s physical condition, sparking a heated exchange between the two.

Despite the occasional controversy, Edwards’s passion for the game and the Bruins organization has been undeniable. For his dedication to the team, he received a 2011 Stanley Cup Championship ring.

Reaction to Retirement

News of Edwards’ retirement has been met with an outpouring of appreciation from fans and colleagues alike. Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs praised Edwards’ impact, stating, “Jack’s voice has been the soundtrack for generations of Bruins fans, who have experienced countless memorable moments. His impact has been felt around the globe, and he will forever be a cherished part of the Bruins legacy.”

NESN President and CEO Sean McGrail echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for Edwards’ contributions over the past 19 years. “Jack brought a unique and colorful personality to our broadcast that was unmistakably his own. We at NESN would like to join everyone in expressing our appreciation for Jack’s dedication and contributions.”

Potential Replacements

As the search begins for Edwards’ successor, one name that has been mentioned is Alex Faust, a former Los Angeles Kings play-by-play announcer and Northeastern graduate. Faust, who currently resides in New York, has filled in for Edwards during parts of this season and could be a leading contender to join analyst Andy Brickley in the booth.

Edwards’ final regular-season broadcast will be Tuesday’s game against the Ottawa Senators at TD Garden. NESN will carry Bruins playoff games that are not claimed by national broadcasters, giving fans a few more opportunities to hear the iconic voice that has narrated so many unforgettable moments in Bruins history.

As the Bruins embark on what they hope will be a deep playoff run, the team, and its fans will undoubtedly be savoring every last call from the man who has been the soundtrack of their success for nearly two decades.

Jack Edwards may be stepping away from the microphone, but his legacy will forever be etched in the annals of Bruins history.