Behind the legendary sportscaster and former coach’s larger-than-life persona is a quieter, steadfast presence, his wife, Lorraine Vitale. As Vitale went through his health challenges and a legendary career, Lorraine has been his rock, supporting him through the ups and downs.
Although Lorraine is not very outgoing or prominent in public, it is clear that both Dick and his fans appreciate her contributions.
All You Need To Know About Dick Vitale’s Wife
Lorraine McGrath married Vitale in 1971. They raised two daughters, Terri and Sherri, and have five grandchildren. The couple has called Lakewood Ranch, Florida, home since the 1990s, and they’ve become regulars in the Tampa Bay sports scene, cheering for the Buccaneers, Lightning, and Rays.
Severe health challenges have marked Vitale’s recent years. In 2021, he faced a melanoma and lymphoma diagnosis, undergoing extensive treatments. By December 2021, dysplasia in the vocal cord silenced his famously loud broadcasting voice for four months after surgeries.
So lucky that @espn’s @KevinNegandhi serves as gala emcee as he has done a fantastic job.Also @jksports has been fab with his PR- a key player in helping us raise $105.4 MILLION for pediatric cancer research has been my wife Lorraine . @TheVFoundation @MKenealyEvents @ESPNPR pic.twitter.com/UqJL0lwZg3
— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) May 25, 2025
In July 2023, laryngeal cancer required six weeks of radiation, yet Vitale announced in December 2023 that he was cancer-free. Most recently, in June 2024, he faced lymph node cancer, undergoing surgery and declaring himself cancer-free again by December 13, 2024. During these challenging times, Lorraine’s support allowed him to return to the broadcast booth, where his passion for college basketball continues to shine.
Vitale’s Transition From Coaching To Broadcasting
Before becoming a broadcasting icon, Vitale was a coach. He started at Garfield High School in New Jersey, leading East Rutherford High to two state titles with a 131–47 record from 1964 to 1971.
He then served as an assistant at Rutgers before becoming head coach at the University of Detroit, where he posted a 78–30 record and led the Titans to the 1977 NCAA Tournament. Vitale’s brief time in the NBA with the Detroit Pistons in 1978–79 was less successful, ending with a 4–8 start in his second season and his firing in November 1979.
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His coaching days set the stage for his ESPN career, which began in 1979. Lorraine supported him through this transition, from the stress of NBA coaching to the demands of national broadcasts.
Vitale’s multiple books, film appearances, and catchphrases have made him a cultural icon, but he often points to his family as his most outstanding achievement. Lorraine, a devout Catholic like her husband, has shared in his charitable efforts, including fundraising for pediatric cancer research. Their partnership extends beyond the personal, touching communities through Vitale’s advocacy.
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