Jim Donovan, the longtime voice of the Cleveland Browns, announced Thursday afternoon that he is stepping away from calling games due to his ongoing battle with cancer. Donovan, who has been a beloved figure in Browns broadcasting for 25 years, shared the news in a heartfelt letter to Browns fans.
“Hello Browns Fans Everywhere,” Donovan began. “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.”
However, Donovan went on to share the difficult news that he would not be behind the microphone for the upcoming season. “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,” he wrote.
Donovan has been battling cancer for many years, enduring a range of treatments. “But my cancer is a defiant opponent and has returned very aggressively,” he explained. “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.”
Reflecting on his quarter-century tenure as the voice of the Browns, Donovan expressed deep gratitude for the support he has received from the Cleveland community. “Not a day has gone by when I haven’t paused and been so proud to be ‘The Voice of the Browns,'” he said. “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.”
In closing, Donovan urged fans to rally behind the team for the upcoming season. “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!”
He ended the letter with a simple, heartfelt message: “It’s been an honor.”
The Browns organization and fans alike are mourning the news of Donovan’s departure, recognizing the indelible mark he has left on the franchise.
