It’s the end of an era for rugby league fans as they say farewell to one of the sport’s most beloved figures.
Ray French, the legendary broadcaster and former player who became synonymous with rugby league commentary in the UK, has passed away at the age of 85.
From the Field to the Commentary Box
Before he became a familiar voice in living rooms across the country, Ray French was a star on the pitch.
He started in rugby union, earning four caps for England back in 1961.
But it wasn’t long before he made the switch to rugby league—a move that would shape the rest of his life.
French went on to represent Great Britain, making four appearances, and played over 200 games for his hometown club, St Helens.
One of his proudest achievements was helping them secure both the league title and Challenge Cup in the same year—1966.
After finishing up his playing career at Widnes, French didn’t walk away from the sport.
Instead, he found a new home in the commentary booth.
A Voice That Defined Generations
Ray French took over commentary duties from the iconic Eddie Waring in 1981 and would go on to be a mainstay on BBC’s rugby league coverage for over three decades.
For many fans, his voice was rugby league. He covered every Challenge Cup final from 1982 right up until 2008 and was last heard on TV during the 2013 Rugby League World Cup before retiring.
In recent years, French battled dementia, but his legacy remained firmly etched in the sport’s history.
Tributes Pour In from the Rugby World
The news of Ray’s passing brought an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from across the rugby community.
Former dual-code rugby star Jonathan Davies, who had the privilege of working alongside Ray at the BBC, shared his sorrow.
“Really sad news of the passing of my friend and legend rugby player and broadcaster,” Davies said.
“Ray had not been well for a while, so I hope he passed peacefully. We had many great days together. He was such a lovely man.
I hope the rugby league world recognises just how much he did for the game.”
Barrie McDermott, another well-known name in rugby league and a pundit for Sky Sports, described French as a “genuine rugby league legend.”
“He was the voice of our sport for so many years,” McDermott said.
“A master of his trade, always generous with advice and kind with his time.
He always had time for me, and for everyone.
My thoughts go out to his family and all his friends. Rest in peace, Ray.”
A Lasting Legacy in Rugby League
Ray French wasn’t just a commentator or a player—he was a bridge between generations, bringing the heart of rugby league to life for millions.
Whether on the pitch or in the commentary box, his love for the game shone through in everything he did.
He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.