Fredericksburg, Virginia – Tom Larson, the legendary Boston sportscaster renowned for his extensive coverage of the Bruins and Red Sox, has passed away at the age of 84. The news of Larson’s demise was confirmed by his son, Jeff Larson, who revealed that his father succumbed to complications related to cancer on Wednesday in Fredericksburg.
Born Lanny Lee Larason, the esteemed sportscaster adopted the screen name Tom Larson in 1969. Larson’s illustrious career led him to Boston after successful stints in Peoria, Illinois, and Lansing, Michigan. His impact in the New England area was particularly felt through his dedicated coverage of the Boston Bruins.
During the 1969-70 season, Larson assumed the role of the host for the Bruins’ pregame and postgame studio program on Boston’s Channel 38. His career soared alongside the success of the Bruins, especially during the team’s Stanley Cup victories in 1970 and 1972.
In 1981, Larson made headlines by vowing not to shave his beard until the Bruins secured another Stanley Cup. Despite the team’s challenges over the next three decades, Larson upheld his pledge, becoming a symbolic figure associated with Bruins success.
Reflecting on the reactions to his beard, Larson shared, “‘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.” He added, “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.”
In 2011, after the Bruins secured the Stanley Cup, Larson finally shaved his beard, expressing surprise at the three-decade duration. He humorously remarked that he might grow it back.
Larson served as the sports director for WHDH radio from 1981 to 1988. Subsequently, he contributed his expertise to the New England Sports Network, where he worked as a contributing writer and television host for the Boston Red Sox.
Tom Larson’s indelible mark on Boston sports broadcasting has left an enduring legacy, and his contributions will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.