Major League Baseball has lost a beloved figure.

The Milwaukee Brewers confirmed the passing of Bob Uecker, their long-time play-by-play announcer, who became a household name through his appearances on “The Johnny Carson Show” and his role as broadcaster Harry Doyle in the “Major League” series. Uecker died on Thursday at the age of 90.

According to the Uecker family, he had been privately battling small cell lung cancer since the beginning of 2023. The Brewers called this day “one of the most challenging days in Milwaukee Brewers history.”

Having been the radio voice of the Brewers since 1971, Uecker enjoyed a remarkable broadcasting career that spanned over 50 years, making him a memorable part of baseball culture in Milwaukee and nationally. Before his broadcasting fame, Uecker was a player and later became a comedian, actor, and commercial spokesperson, frequently appearing on TV and in films during the ’80s and ’90s.

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Uecker has left a lasting legacy that affects many generations. Here’s a closer look at this broadcasting icon, his transition into acting, and some of the most memorable moments of his career:

Bob Uecker: The ‘Mr. Baseball’ Era with Johnny Carson

Uecker made his mark on mainstream television starting in 1971 when he appeared on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.” During his initial appearance, Carson gave him the nickname “Mr. Baseball,” which lasted throughout Uecker’s career. Reports indicate that Uecker graced the show more than 100 times, using his self-deprecating sense of humor and deadpan style to become a regular on Carson’s program.

Uecker’s Iconic Role in ‘Major League’

Uecker’s rise as an entertainer was bolstered by his rapport with Johnny Carson, ultimately leading him into acting. His most notable role was as Harry Doyle, the witty and sarcastic (and sometimes tipsy) radio broadcaster for the Cleveland Indians in the “Major League” films. Many of Uecker’s lines from the original 1989 film remain popular and are quoted today, long after its release.

In addition to various cameo roles, Uecker was a significant part of the sitcom ‘Mr. Belvedere,’ where he portrayed George Owen, a father and sportswriter, during its run from 1985 to 1990. In 1984, he also hosted “Saturday Night Live” and became well-known for various national advertising campaigns, especially those promoting Miller Lite.

Bob Uecker’s Venture into Wrestling

Uecker’s widespread appeal allowed him to make appearances in the professional wrestling world, where he created some memorable moments at Wrestlemania and earned a spot in the WWE Hall of Fame.

In 1987, he was the ring announcer for the iconic match between Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant at Wrestlemania III in Pontiac, Michigan. The following year at Wrestlemania IV, an unforgettable moment occurred when Andre the Giant choked Uecker for talking back to him during a backstage interview, creating a moment still shared widely today.

Uecker’s Broadcasting Journey

Uecker commenced his broadcasting career at WSB-TV in Atlanta in 1969, becoming part of the Braves’ broadcast team. In 1971, he was appointed to the Brewers’ broadcast booth by former owner and MLB commissioner Bud Selig, just after the franchise’s move from Seattle in its second season.

He continued with the Brewers for an impressive 54 years until his passing on Thursday, ranking as the fourth-longest broadcaster in major league history, just behind Dodgers legends Vin Scully and Jaime Jarrin, along with Denny Matthews of the Kansas City Royals. Uecker is well-known for his famous catchphrase “Get up! Get up! Get outta here! Gone!” signaling a Milwaukee home run.

In what became his last broadcasting season in 2024, the Brewers clinched the National League Central title but were eliminated by the New York Mets in a wild-card series. During a celebration of their division win in September, first-year manager Pat Murphy raised a toast to Uecker, highlighting his significance to the team.

“There is no one who epitomizes being a champion like this man does What an example for us to be with every single day,” Murphy stated amidst the celebrations.

Uecker also took on the role of color commentator for national MLB games produced by ABC and NBC throughout the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, partnering with Bob Costas and Joe Morgan to cover the World Series.

His contributions to baseball earned him the Ford Frick Award in 2003, a distinguished honor that led to his induction into the Hall of Fame.

Bob Uecker: A Look at His MLB Stats and Achievements

Uecker often used humor to comment on his playing career.

After serving in the Army, he signed with the Milwaukee Braves in 1956 and made his Major League debut in 1962. Over six seasons as a catcher with the Braves, Philadelphia Phillies, and St. Louis Cardinals, he hit .200, winning a World Series in 1964 as the backup for Tim McCarver.

“I was once named minor league player of the year,” Uecker humorously recalled. “Unfortunately, I had been in the majors for two years at the time.”