Rugby League Legend Paul Langmack Dies at 61 After Collapsing During Morning Gym Visit

Australian rugby league is mourning the sudden death of former Canterbury Bulldogs star Paul Langmack, who died aged 61 after reportedly suffering a major heart attack during a morning workout.

Langmack, a three-time premiership winner and one of the most recognizable personalities in the sport, died on Thursday, November 5, 2026. He was reportedly taken to hospital after collapsing during his gym routine, but doctors were unable to save him.

According to former rugby league player and radio host Mark Levy, Langmack had suffered a major heart attack. Former teammate Daryl Brohman also recalled hearing that Langmack had collapsed in a sauna.

The news came as a shock to the rugby league community. Reports said Langmack had been exchanging messages with former teammates and friends just hours before his death.

Langmack built a celebrated career with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, becoming a central figure in the club’s famous “Dogs of War” era. He played 174 first-grade matches for Canterbury and helped the team win premiership titles in 1984, 1985 and 1988.

Across his professional career, he played 314 first-grade games for Canterbury, Western Suburbs and the Sydney Roosters. He also represented New South Wales in four State of Origin matches and featured on Australia’s 1986 Kangaroo Tour of Great Britain and France.

After retiring from playing in 1999, Langmack moved into coaching. He worked as an assistant with the Wests Tigers before taking charge of South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2003 and 2004.

However, his contribution to rugby league did not end when he left the field. In later years, he worked with the New South Wales Rugby League in community and welfare programs, helping young people and current and former players with mental health and wellbeing initiatives.

Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould described himself as devastated by the loss, remembering Langmack as energetic, enthusiastic and fiercely loyal to his teammates. He said Langmack regularly contacted him about rugby league and that he would deeply miss their conversations.

Former teammate Brohman also paid tribute, describing him as a talented footballer and the life of the party.

Langmack leaves behind a legacy that extended far beyond his three premiership medals. He was remembered not only for his achievements on the field, but also for his humor, generosity and commitment to helping others.