One familiar Lakers voice won't return after major team announcement

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For more than 40 years, one voice was familiar to Lakers fans of all ages. That chapter came to an end this week with a big announcement from the team.

The Lakers announced that longtime public address announcer Lawrence Tanter is retiring from his game-day role after 43 seasons behind the microphone. The move ends one of the longest runs by a game announcer in professional sports. Tanter joined the team in 1982 and remained a familiar presence at Lakers games throughout several championship years.

The Los Angeles Lakers announced that longtime public address announcer Lawrence Tanter is retiring after an incredible 43 seasons behind the microphone.

He had missed the team's last 6 home games of the regular season, including the playoffs after suffering a stroke back in… pic.twitter.com/4V5xboHyJv

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) June 17, 2026

His retirement comes after a health issue earlier this year. Tanter missed the Lakers' final six home games, including the playoffs, after suffering a stroke in March. His absence left open the question of whether he would return.

The Lakers have now answered those questions. While Tanter is stepping away from announcing games, he will stay with the team as Special Advisor for Game Presentation. In this new role, he can share his knowledge while the Lakers bring in a new voice for home games.

This change means more than just filling a position. Tanter's voice became a key part of the Lakers' experience for many fans. He worked games at the Forum, Staples Center, and Crypto.com Arena, covering title-winning teams led by Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. During his time with the franchise, the Lakers won 10 NBA championships.

His impact was clear even when things were different. During the 2020 NBA bubble, Tanter recorded player introductions from afar so the Lakers could keep part of their usual game atmosphere. It showed how closely his voice was tied to the team.

Someone else may handle the microphone next season, but Tanter's place in Lakers history is already set.