Jim Donovan, the esteemed radio play-by-play announcer for the Cleveland Browns and a renowned sports figure for over 40 years, passed away on Saturday at the age of 68.
Earlier this year, Donovan retired from broadcasting and stepped away from his game-day responsibilities with the Browns as he fought cancer. He announced his retirement from WKYC on May 30 and conducted his final broadcast as a sports anchor on June 10. He had been a voice for the team since their return in 1999 after expansion.
Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam released a statement expressing their sorrow: “This is an incredibly difficult day for us and the entire Cleveland Browns organization. His impact as the Voice of the Browns for 25 years is immeasurable, as he touched the lives of our fans each and every Sunday with his love for the Browns and his brilliance at his craft. He will be greatly missed, but he cemented a legacy that will live on forever. The only thing that outweighed his love for this city and this team was the love he had for his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Cheryl, his daughter, Meghan, and everyone who was fortunate enough to call Jimmy family or friend.”
Originally from Boston and affectionately known as “Jimmy,” Donovan won over Cleveland fans with his enthusiasm, humor, and professionalism. He meticulously prepared for game broadcasts, dedicating countless hours to perfecting his craft.
Donovan had recently been honored with an induction into the Browns’ Legends Club and the Greater Cleveland Sports Hall of Fame, although he was unable to attend the ceremonies due to his illness.
Upon his departure in August, Donovan expressed gratitude to Browns fans in a letter, saying, “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.”
Donovan had previously taken a leave from his role as sports director at WKYC-TV for several months last fall to receive treatment for leukemia but returned in time to cover the team’s playoff chase at the end of the season.
He was first diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, which affects white blood cells and bone marrow, in 2000 and underwent bone marrow surgery in 2011. A Boston University graduate, Donovan arrived in Cleveland in 1985. In addition to reporting on the local sports scene, he also worked on various national assignments, including NBC’s coverage team for the 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics.