Donovan was first named the “Voice of the Cleveland Browns” in 1999
Jim Donovan, “The Voice of the Cleveland Browns,” is stepping away from the Browns Radio Network to continue his focus on his battle with cancer.
Donovan was first diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia in 2000, which began a decade-long battle with the disease. He underwent a bone marrow transplant in the summer of 2011, and has been monitoring since. Donovan announced in May 2023 that he had a relapse of the leukemia and would undergo a more aggressive treatment.
Then, in September during the 2023 season opener against the Bengals, Donovan announced he would taking a medical leave of absence from the Browns Radio Network as he continued his treatment of leukemia. He returned to the radio booth in November for Week 11 of the season. In February 2024, Donovan celebrated the end of a radiation treatment.
Donovan announced his retirement from WKYC on May 30. He worked his final broadcast as a sports anchor on June 10. Donovan first joined 3News in 1985 as a weekend sports anchor. Donovan was first named as the radio “Voice of the Cleveland Browns” in 1999 and completed his 25th season as the radio play-by-play voice for the Browns last season.
“We have been so honored to have Jim Donovan as the Voice of the Browns since we became a part of the organization in 2012 and quickly understood why our fans have absolutely loved him for the last 25 years,” Managing and Principal Partners Dee and Jimmy Haslam said. “He is Cleveland and represents all that is good about Cleveland.
“Jim poured everything into his craft. Whether you’ve heard him on TV, radio or have been lucky enough to engage him in person, he lights up every room and every conversation with his infectious energy. His class, professionalism and limitless care for those around him make all of us better. Words could never fully express our gratitude and admiration for Jim, how he has navigated his fight with cancer, his love for this city and most importantly, his love and dedication to his family. I know we speak for all Browns fans in saying that he is in our prayers, we are here to support him in every way possible and Jim Donovan will forever be a Cleveland Brown.”
Donovan shared a personal letter with the fans.
Well the regular season is finally here! Can you imagine the atmosphere inside Browns Stadium when the Cowboys and Browns kick it off? It will be electric. It will be epic.
Unfortunately, I will not be calling the game on the Browns Radio Network. I have called my last Browns game and that’s why I’m writing to you. As many of you know I have been dealing with cancer for many years. I’ve gone through every treatment imaginable. But my cancer is a defiant opponent and has returned and very aggressively. This will require me to devote everything I have in me to continue the fight and my family and I are committed to doing that.
I have called Browns games for 25 years. Not a day has gone by when I haven’t paused and been so proud to be “The Voice of the Browns.” Cheryl, Meghan and I thank you for all the love, support and prayers during my rough patches. It’s like having a huge family around us. And that’s what makes the Cleveland Browns so special. You do.
Now let’s get those Cowboys and make this ’24-’25 season a great one! I’ll be watching and listening. Here We Go Brownies…Here We Go!
It’s been an honor,
Jim Donovan
