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.”

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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.”

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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.”

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