*TV Voice of the Blues John Kelly discusses first half, Jets matchup*
St. Louis Blues broadcast changes are underway as the team restructures its media lineup for the upcoming NHL season. Longtime TV play-by-play announcer John Kelly will not return, ending a nearly two-decade run behind the mic. The Blues and their broadcast partners announced Thursday that Kelly’s contract will not be renewed.
Kelly has served as the television voice of the Blues since the 2005–2006 season. The son of legendary broadcaster Dan Kelly, he began his career in the Blues TV booth before calling games for the Tampa Bay Lightning and Colorado Avalanche. His departure marks a significant transition in Blues coverage.
As part of the new format, Blues games on FanDuel Sports Network will be simulcast on 101ESPN radio, with Chris Kerber and Joey Vitale taking over play-by-play and color commentary duties. Kerber has been the team’s radio voice for 25 years, while Vitale has spent the past seven seasons as a radio analyst and contributor on Blues LIVE.
Meanwhile, Blues LIVE will retain analysts Jamie Rivers and Bernie Federko. Former Blues defenseman Chris Pronger will expand his role in the studio. Andy Strickland will continue as rinkside reporter and will host Blues LIVE during road games. Alexa Datt, previously the show’s primary host, will not return.
These updates reflect a broader reshaping of the Blues’ broadcast presentation, with a blend of veteran voices and increased radio-television integration heading into the new season.
This article is a rewritten summary based on KMOV
