Don Shane, the longtime Detroit television sports broadcaster whose career spanned nearly four decades, is being remembered for his distinctive personality, professionalism and decades of coverage of Michigan sports.
Shane died on February 25, 2023, at the age of 70, according to WXYZ-TV, where he spent 23 years as a prominent sports anchor
Shane joined WXYZ in 1989 and became a familiar presence in homes across Metro Detroit. During his career, he covered some of the biggest events in American sports, including NBA Finals, Stanley Cup competitions, the Rose Bowl and major boxing events in Las Vegas.
His broadcasting career also included work with WDIV in Detroit, as well as television positions in Boston and Chicago. He served as a play-by-play announcer for Michigan State University, the University of Michigan and the Detroit Pistons.
Colleagues remembered Shane not only for his knowledge of sports but also for the enthusiasm and humor he brought to his work. His popular “Dare Don” segments became part of his identity, with Shane regularly accepting unusual challenges for viewers.
One memorable challenge involving former Detroit Lions player Chris Spielman resulted in Shane suffering three broken ribs, an example of the lengths he was willing to go for a story and his audience
Beyond his work on television, Shane was respected for his preparation, work ethic and willingness to help others entering the broadcasting industry. WXYZ noted that he mentored numerous student interns over the years, many of whom went on to pursue careers of their own .
His career earned him numerous honors, including 23 Michigan Emmy Awards, a Silver Circle Award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and recognition from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters and the Associated Press.
Shane retired from television in 2012 after a career that had made him one of the best-known sports broadcasters in the Detroit market. Following his retirement, he moved to Arizona and later spent his final years in California, where he lived closer to his children. His family welcomed its first grandchild in 2022.
The cause of Shane’s death was not immediately disclosed in the reports announcing his passing.
For generations of Detroit sports fans, however, Shane’s legacy is tied to the moments he brought into their homes — championship celebrations, heartbreaking defeats, interviews with athletes and the excitement of Michigan sports.
His colleagues and friends have remembered him as a talented broadcaster who genuinely enjoyed his profession. The Michigan Association of Broadcasters described his work ethic as matched by his kindness and passion for storytelling.
Don Shane leaves behind a lasting legacy in Detroit sports broadcasting. His voice, personality and commitment to telling the stories behind the games made him a memorable figure whose work continues to be remembered by the sports community.
May he rest in peace.