DawgTalkers.net Forums DawgTalk Tailgate Forum Jim Donovan stepping down as Browns radio announcer

His cancer has returned "aggressively". I pray he somehow gets a miracle that allows him to enjoy the rest of his life, and that God defeats this scourge of cancer.

https://fox8.com/news/jim-donovan-stepping-down-as-browns-radio-announcer/

CLEVELAND (WJW) – Jim Donovan, nicknamed “The Voice of the Cleveland Browns,” is stepping down as an announcer for the Browns Radio Network.

Donovan announced the decision in a letter to fans on Thursday.

“I have called my last Browns game and that’s why I’m writing to you,” the letter said, in part. “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.”

He was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia in 2000, setting off a long-term cancer battle before undergoing a bone marrow transplant 11 years later, according to the Browns website.

In spring 2023, however, Donovan confirmed the leukemia relapsed.

He has been calling games as “The Voice of the Browns” 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,'” the letter continued. “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.”

Dee and Jimmy Haslam also released a statement on Thursday:

“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. He is Cleveland and represents all that is good about Cleveland. Jim has poured everything into his craft. Whether you’ve heard of 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.”

It’s a sad day. I always enjoyed listening to him.

This is very sad. His voice will be missed. Prayers for him to beat the cancer.

What a gut punch to start the season.

Cleveland has been so blessed with radio announcers. From Herb Score to Hammy for the Tribe, Joe Tait for the Cavs, and Jim Donovan for the Browns.

These guys have been on the airwaves, covering our teams and painting the pictures of Cleveland sports, as a constant in my life since childhood.

Prayers to Jim and his family.

My heart and prayers go out to Jimmy and his family. I know the struggle of a long term fight on not just him, but on his family and close friends. Hang in there buddy. You have carried yourself with grace and with strength during this fight and been a inspiration to many of us my friend.

I am sorry to hear the news, but won't say I am sad. Jim has had a wonderful journey and gained the respect and love from many thousands of people.

My prayers are with Jim and his family as he moves on to the next chapter of his life.

He had such a memorable voice and persona for our entire fan base. The sad thing also is that we never really did anything worthwhile in his 25 years covering the team

Truly Sad. Best Wishes to Jimmy and his family. He is truly one of the best at his craft and will always be a Cleveland legend.

Did it ever. I will miss him terribly.

We all will. It's normal when any radio voice of your team moves on. We have had several radio voices we though could never be replaced. The first I really remember were Bill McColgan and Jim Grainer. Then we had Gib Shanley for a long time. Nev and Deke.

No Doubt JD was a special announcer. He will remain in the radio booth of our memories along with the other greats of the past.