The sports world is mourning the loss of Bobby Curran, a cherished voice in Hawaii athletics who passed away at 69. Curran’s dynamic commentary defined University of Hawaii sports for over 30 years. Hosting “The Bobby Curran Show” on ESPN Honolulu for 32 years, he was a vital part of the local sports community.
Curran’s contributions spanned Rainbow Warriors football, basketball, baseball, and women’s volleyball. Born in New York, he left an enduring impact as the voice of Hawaii sports, earning admiration for his dedication.
College Football Community Mourns the Loss of Bobby Curran
The college football community is grieving the passing of Bobby Curran. Curran, a native of New York, integrated seamlessly into Hawaii’s culture, becoming a key figure in local sports broadcasting.
In recognition of his dedication, he was inducted into the University of Hawaii’s Circle of Honor in 2023 after spending over 30 years delivering play-by-play commentary for Rainbow Warriors football and men’s basketball.
“With heavy hearts, we share the passing of longtime ESPN Honolulu broadcaster Bobby Curran. His voice, passion, and dedication to local sports left an unforgettable mark on our community and the countless lives he touched. Bobby’s impact will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire,” ESPN Honolulu wrote in a tribute to Curran.
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of longtime ESPN Honolulu broadcaster Bobby Curran. His voice, passion, and dedication to local sports left an unforgettable mark on our community. Bobby’s impact will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire. pic.twitter.com/1EGM22xsQO
— ESPN Honolulu (@ESPNHonolulu) March 9, 2025
Fans also shared their grief on social media. One wrote,
“😩 noooo not Bobby grew up listening to him all the OG’S up in heaven now Bobby Robert Don and Jim RIP.”
“Thoughts and prayers to his family, work family, and friends. His impact on the Hawaii sports scene will always be remembered,” another added.
“Rough year for Hawaii Sports! The skies above our islands are full of legends fighting over the radio/television waves. Mahalo Bobby! The Sugar Bowl season was one year we’ll never forget!,” another fan remarked
Health struggles interrupted his career in July 2022 when worsening emphysema required him to undergo a double lung transplant in November of that year. After his recovery, he briefly returned to his show before retiring in 2024.
The broadcast on March 9, 2024, marked his last appearance as he covered the UH men’s basketball game against Cal State Bakersfield. After the recent deaths of Robert Kekaula, along with Jim Leahey and Don Robbs, Curran became the latest Hawaii sportscaster to pass away.
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