Jim Donovan, “Voice of the Cleveland Browns,” has died at the age of 68

In a letter Donovan wrote to Browns fans at the end of the 2024 preseason, Donovan announced that he would step away from the Browns radio network to focus on his battle with cancer, which had returned, and in an aggressive manner. Donovan was inducted into the 2024 Browns Legends class on September 22, along with K Phil Dawson, who personally informed Donovan of the news shortly before the ceremony. Donovan’s daughter, Megan, accepted her Browns Legends jacket on Donovan’s behalf during the ceremony.

“He kept it real, but he kept a positive tone,” Dawson said of Donovan’s calls. “He could always find that balance — authentic and real and nuanced, but he was still supportive, even when there wasn’t a lot of support. And I know the players appreciated that. I know I certainly appreciated that. He was always quick to try to provide context, Instead of letting people focus only on an individual moment he had a knack for always seeing the big picture, yet he kept it real and precise, so everyone understood what was happening.”

Donovan was first diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia in 2000, which began a decade-long battle with the disease. He underwent a successful bone marrow transplant in the summer of 2011 and was monitored for the disease in the following years. Donovan announced in May 2023 that he had had a relapse of his leukemia and would undergo more aggressive treatment.

In September during the 2023 season opener against the Bengals, Donovan announced that he would be taking a medical leave of absence from the Browns radio network while continuing his treatment for leukemia. He listened to every Browns game and followed the team as it endured the ups and downs of 2023.

He returned to the radio booth in November for Week 11 of the 2023 season, when he also served as Dawg Pound captain and smashed a Steelers guitar before kickoff. As he emerged from the tunnel and into the crowd, Donovan smiled as cheers and applause erupted at Huntington Bank Field. Minutes after the guitar was smashed, Donovan was in the radio booth with his headset on, announcing the Browns’ 13-10 victory over the Steelers.

Donovan announced his retirement from WKYC on May 30, 2024. He made his last broadcast as sports anchor on June 10.