Jim Donovan, a longtime WKYC sports anchor and Cleveland Browns radio play-by-play voice, has announced his retirement from television news. After 37 years in broadcasting, the 67-year-old Donovan will have his final broadcast on the local NBC affiliate on June 10.
In a statement, Donovan expressed gratitude for the support he has received from viewers, Browns fans, colleagues, and everyone who has been part of his journey. He looks forward to spending more time with his family after his retirement.
Donovan joined 3News in Boston in 1985 as a weekend sports anchor and moved to Cleveland to become the radio voice of the Cleveland Browns when the team returned after a three-year hiatus in 1999. Despite facing health challenges such as a leukemia diagnosis in 2000 and undergoing a bone marrow transplant in 2011, Donovan persevered through it all. In November of 2023, he took a medical leave from WKYC and Browns radio broadcasts but returned in February of that year and completed his last radiation treatment.
In addition to his sports reporting on the station’s 6 p.m., 11 p.m., and noon newscasts, Donovan anchored the station’s “Front Row” show since October 2012. His accomplishments include receiving multiple regional Emmy awards and being inducted into both the Cleveland Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame and The Press Club of Cleveland’s Hall of Fame.
WKYC President & GM Micki Byrnes praised Donovan’s illustrious career and acknowledged his numerous accomplishments in the field. While Donovan has requested a quiet exit, the station plans to honor him with accolades on his last day on June 10th. Viewers can send their well wishes to goodluckjimmy@wkyc
