Stan Savran Illness: What Happened to Stan Savran? How Did Stan Savran Die?
by Kowsalya
Updated Jun 13, 2023
Stan Savran Illness
Stan Savran, a prominent figure in Pittsburgh sports broadcasting since the mid-1970s, made a heartfelt announcement on Wednesday regarding a recent medical procedure. Sadly, on June 12, 2023, Savran passed away at the age of 76, marking the end of an era.
Over the years, Savran had been grappling with several health issues, including his public revelation last year that he was battling lung cancer. On top of these challenges, he underwent an amputation surgery on his right foot. Despite his resilience, the complications he faced ultimately led to his passing.
For many years, Savran hosted a popular weekday talk show on 970 ESPN, captivating audiences from noon to 2 p.m. His contributions to the local sports scene in Pittsburgh began in January 1976, coinciding with the Pittsburgh Steelers' initial triumph in their journey to winning six Super Bowls.
In a candid message shared on Facebook, Savran disclosed that he was in the hospital, undergoing recuperation, and anticipated an extended period of rehabilitation in various facilities. During this time, he expressed regret over his inability to connect with his audience on a daily basis. However, he emphasized his unwavering determination to regain his health and return to hosting his cherished daily show.
What Happened to Stan Savran?
It is with great sadness that Pittsburgh's Action News 4 announces the passing of the esteemed sportscaster, Stan Savran. Stan Savran made a significant impact on the Pittsburgh sports scene throughout his career.
He began by holding various radio positions in the city before joining WTAE-TV, where he spent a decade as a valued member of the team in the 1980s. Following his tenure at WTAE-TV, Savran continued his involvement in sports broadcasting as a Pittsburgh Penguins analyst on AT&T Sports Network. He even had the opportunity to collaborate with former Pittsburgh's Action Sports reporter, Guy Junker.
In more recent years, Savran showcased his versatility by hosting pre-and post-game shows for both the Penguins and the Pirates on AT&T Sports Network. His dedication and adaptability in covering multiple sports earned him a well-deserved place in the Western Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame.
Steelers President Art Rooney II expressed his condolences, stating, "This is a somber day for the City of Pittsburgh as we mourn the loss of Stan Savran, a legendary individual, media icon, and dear friend.
He exemplified true gentlemanly qualities and contributed immensely to our city and Western Pennsylvania through his honest commentary and extensive knowledge of both local and national sports."
How Did Stan Savran Die?
Stan Savran, a beloved figure in Pittsburgh's sports broadcasting scene for almost 50 years, has passed away at the age of 76. The announcement of his death was made by WTAE-TV, where Savran served as a sports anchor during the 1980s.
Although no official cause of death was disclosed, Savran had been open about his battle with lung cancer in recent years. He resided in Upper St. Clair, a suburb in the southern part of the city.
Affectionately referred to as the "Godfather" of Pittsburgh sports, Savran became deeply rooted in the city after arriving from Cleveland in 1976. He initially pursued a career in radio before transitioning to television, occasionally taking on the role of a newspaper columnist as well.
Savran's most prominent role was as co-host of the highly regarded "SportsBeat" show, which aired on regional cable from 1991 to 2009. The program became a staple for passionate fans of Pittsburgh's professional sports teams.
It was common for callers to begin their conversations with the phrase, "Stan, Guy, love the show," a sentiment that Savran cherished even after the show's lengthy run came to an end.
Stan Savran Cause of Death
The specific cause of Stan Savran's death has not been officially revealed to the public. However, it is worth noting that he had been open about his struggle with lung cancer in the period leading up to his passing.
Lung cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening illness that can have various complications. While it is not confirmed whether his battle with cancer directly led to his death, it is plausible that his health condition may have played a role.
It is essential to respect the privacy of Savran's family and allow them to disclose any further details regarding his cause of death, as they see fit.
Who was Stan Savran?
Stan Savran, born Stanley George Savransky on February 25, 1947, was a highly regarded media personality based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His contributions to the sports industry led to his induction into the Western Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame and the Pittsburgh Pirates Media Wall of Fame.
After graduating from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, Savran embarked on a career in radio, holding various positions in Columbus, Lawton (OK), and Orlando (FL).
During his time in Orlando, he served as a play-by-play announcer for the World Football League from 1974 to 1975. In January 1976, Savran responded to a "blind" advertisement for a radio sportscaster in Broadcasting magazine, which marked his arrival in Pittsburgh.
Savran's initial on-air role in Pittsburgh was at WWSW-AM, but he later transitioned to KQV when WWSW changed its format in 1979. From 1981 to 1991, he served as a dedicated sports reporter for WTAE-TV, delivering sports news from both the news desk and various locations.
Additionally, he hosted a talk show from 8 to 9 p.m. on WTAE Radio (now WPGP). This era, in conjunction with Myron Cope's show in the 6-8 p.m. timeslot, was fondly referred to as the "Golden Era of Pittsburgh sports talk" due to Savran's remarkable skills and knowledge. Following a disagreement with management, Savran departed for KBL/Fox Sports Net.
Between 2000 and 2004, Savran contributed weekly sports columns to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the city's largest newspaper. Throughout his career, he also served as a sports anchor for WTAE-TV and WPGH-TV in Pittsburgh.
Furthermore, he hosted intermission segments during Pittsburgh Penguins broadcasts when the games aired on WPGH, and he continued to make occasional appearances in the same capacity for AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh.
Stan Savran Illness-FAQs
Stan Savran, born Stanley George Savransky on February 25, 1947, was a highly regarded media personality based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
No official cause of death was disclosed, Savran had been open about his battle with lung cancer in recent years. He resided in Upper St. Clair, a suburb in the southern part of the city.
It is with great sadness that Pittsburgh's Action News 4 announces the passing of the esteemed sportscaster, Stan Savran. Stan Savran made a significant impact on the Pittsburgh sports scene throughout his career.
Stan Savran publicly battled lung cancer in recent years. He was open about his health condition and shared his journey with the public.