The iconic “Voice of the Buffalo Bills,” John Murphy, has decided to step down from his long-standing position ahead of the 2024 season. The Buffalo Bills made the announcement online, emphasizing Murphy’s role as an ambassador for both the team and the city of Buffalo.
Murphy served as the team’s radio broadcaster for an impressive 35 years, acting as a color analyst for 16 years and a play-by-play broadcaster for 19 years. His absence from the broadcast booth last season was due to a stroke he suffered in January of the previous year. However, he expressed optimism about his recovery when speaking with 7 News Senior Reporter Eileen Buckley earlier this year, stating that he’s improving every day.
In an interview with WBEN, Murphy shared that he feels it’s the right time to embark on the next phase of his life and is open to contributing to game day broadcasts in a different capacity.
Fond memories and well-wishes are pouring in from the Buffalo Bills community for Murphy, with team owner Terry Pegula highlighting his passion and dedication to the Bills and Western New York over the past three decades. Legendary Bills Wide Receiver Steve Tasker also reflected on Murphy’s significant contributions to Buffalo broadcasting and his personal impact.
Beyond his role as the “Voice of the Bills,” Murphy is recognized in the Buffalo Broadcasters Hall of Fame and was honored with the Dick Gallagher Legacy Award from the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame in 2022 for his outstanding service to the Buffalo community and his promotion of local amateur sports throughout his broadcasting career.
