Longtime Cleveland Browns radio and television personality Jim Donovan, a beloved figure in the community, has passed away at the age of 68.

His death has left a void that is deeply felt by several fans, players, and NFL legends who have all paid tribute to the revered sportscaster. The longtime voice of the Browns passed away on Saturday after a battle with cancer.

Donovan took on the full-time role of Brown’s play-by-play announcer in 1999 and has held the position until this year. He announced that he would retire before the season began to focus on his health, without providing much detail of his battle.

The Browns organization paid its respect to Donovan on social media. They wrote on X: “We are heartbroken that Jim Donovan, the Voice of the Browns, has passed away. Jim provided so much joy and love to this city. His steady presence on the radio for Browns games and on television for nightly news made it feel like he was an extended family member for all those that tuned in. His signature calls will be forever embedded in Browns history. Our thoughts are with Jim’s family and everyone who had the immense pleasure of considering him a friend.”

The Browns organization, local media, and NFL icons have come together to honor Donovan’s legacy, sharing heartfelt tributes after news of his passing. The team’s color analyst Nathan Zegura and national media like ESPN, local outlets, the Cleveland Guardians, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame all expressed admiration for Donovan.

Each tribute highlighted his passion for the game, his perseverance, and the lasting impact he left on the Cleveland community and the broader sports world. Browns legend Joe Thomas wrote: “I was incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of Jim Donovan today.”

“The best in the business. Was quite literally the voice of Cleveland fans since the team returned in 1999. And for those of us that were lucky enough to get to work with him on a daily basis, you realized that as great of a play-by-play guy as he was, he was an even more wonderful human being.”

A Cleveland Browns fan hold a sign in support of Browns radio announcer Jim Donovan

Jim Donovan was loved by Cleveland fans and the world ( 

Image:

Getty)

The Cleveland Cavaliers wrote: “In loving memory of legendary Cleveland sportscaster, Jim Donovan. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Rock Entertainment Group send our condolences to the Donovan family and honor his incredible impact on this city’s sports community.”

Donovan was a revered figure in Cleveland sports media. He dedicated over 40 years to captivating audiences with his commentary and storytelling. His journey in Cleveland began in 1985 when he joined WKYC radio.

From 1987 to 1997, Donovan expanded his reach, calling NFL games for NBC, where he demonstrated the same passion and commitment that would define his tenure with the Browns. Even as he navigated personal health challenges, including a diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in 2000, Donovan remained steadfast in his role.