After a 30-year tenure as the radio voice of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bill Hillgrove has declared his retirement. Hillgrove’s broadcasting career is deeply rooted in Pittsburgh, where he grew up and honed his on-air skills with Pitt football and basketball.
Hillgrove’s journey to the Steelers’ play-by-play booth began in 1994 when he was considered for the role following the retirement of Jack Fleming, despite never having applied for the position. The decision, spearheaded by Dan Rooney after listening to Hillgrove’s broadcast tape, catapulted him into the middle of some of the most historic moments in Steelers history.
As he steps away from NFL broadcasting, Hillgrove looks forward to focusing on Pitt football and basketball, enjoying personal time, and supporting his family.
Steelers President Art Rooney II said of Hillgrove, “He has played a major role in broadcasting to our amazing fans on our radio network, but he also found time to be part of so many special events since he began working alongside the great Myron Cope on the airwaves in 1994. Bill will truly be missed by Steelers Nation, but we are excited for him and his family to enjoy his retirement.”
