NHL Analyst Barry Melrose Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, Retiring from ESPN

“It's now time to hang up my skates and focus on my health,” the 67-year-old said

Former NHL coach and player Barry Melrose revealed that he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and is retiring as a NHL analyst.

The 67-year-old shared the news on Tuesday in a statement to ESPN.

"I've had over 50 extraordinary years playing, coaching and analyzing the world's greatest game, hockey,” he said. “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."

"I'm beyond grateful for my hockey career, and to have called ESPN home for almost 30 years,” Melrose added. “Thanks for the incredible memories and I'll now be cheering for you from the stands."

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Parkinson’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects the nervous system, according to the National Institutes of Health. It causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as a tremor in the hands, arms, legs or head, muscle stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.

Symptoms typically worsen over time and as the disease progresses, people may have difficulty walking and talking. Parkinson’s can also cause mental and behavioral changes, sleep problems, depression, memory difficulties, and fatigue.

Melrose has been an Emmy Award-winning hockey analyst for ESPN since 1996.

Following the news of his diagnosis and retirement, he received tons of support from his colleagues.

“I've worked with Barry at ESPN for over a quarter century,” ESPN’s John Buccigross wrote on X, formerly Twitter, alongside a video tribute. “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.”

Related: Baywatch Lifeguard Mike Newman Opens Up About His 16-Year Struggle with Parkinson's: 'Everything Changes' (Exclusive)

"Barry has had a connection to the sport for an astonishing 50 years as a player, coach and analyst, and he has left an indelible mark both on and off the ice," ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro said. "We wish him and his family the very best."

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman called Melrose a “unique, one-of-a-kind person."

"Hockey on ESPN won't be the same without him,” he said, per ESPN. “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," Bettman added.

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