Richard Roeper Joins NBC 5 Chicago as Entertainment Contributor

Renowned film critic Richard Roeper is joining NBC 5 Chicago as its new Entertainment & Culture Contributor, with his on-air debut scheduled for this Friday. This move marks a significant shift in the city's media landscape, bringing one of Chicago's most recognizable commentators to the WMAQ-TV news team.

Andre Silva

April 7, 2026 · 6 min read

Renowned film critic and media personality Richard Roeper is joining NBC 5 Chicago as its new Entertainment & Culture Contributor, with his on-air debut scheduled for this Friday.

The move marks a significant shift in the city's media landscape, bringing one of Chicago's most recognizable commentators to the WMAQ-TV news team. This isn't just a personnel change; it's a statement of intent from NBC 5. By adding Roeper's established and respected voice, the station invests in high-profile, authoritative cultural analysis, a role often shrinking elsewhere. This acquisition could further energize a news operation that has recently seen a surge in viewership, signaling a renewed focus on content deeply resonating with a Chicago audience.

What We Know So Far

Richard Roeper will serve as NBC 5 Chicago's multi-platform Entertainment & Culture Contributor, according to a station announcement from nbcchicago.com.
His new role is set to begin this Friday, with his first appearances on NBC 5's news broadcasts.
His responsibilities will include providing film and television reviews, covering entertainment news and trends, and analyzing major local and national news stories through a cultural lens.
Roeper's career in media spans nearly four decades, including a 35-plus-year tenure at the Chicago Sun-Times and eight seasons as the co-host of the nationally syndicated show Ebert & Roeper.
According to the Chicago Tribune, Roeper's last day as a contributor for WLS-Ch. 7 was April 3, just before this new role was announced.

Richard Roeper NBC 5 Chicago: What's His New Role?

Richard Roeper's position at NBC 5 Chicago is "Entertainment & Culture Contributor," a title suggesting a scope broader than traditional film criticism. According to the station's announcement, his duties will be multifaceted. He is expected to deliver his trademark sharp film and television reviews, guiding viewers through an ever-expanding content landscape. His mandate extends beyond simple reviews to covering breaking entertainment news and dissecting emerging industry trends.

Perhaps the most intriguing part of his new role is the directive to "examine major local and national news stories through a cultural lens." This suggests an analytical function, where Roeper will be called upon to connect the dots between current events and the cultural zeitgeist. It's a space where journalism and cultural commentary intersect, and it leverages his decades of experience observing how society is reflected in and shaped by the media we consume. Sally Ramirez, Senior Vice President of News for NBC Chicago, highlighted this unique perspective in a statement. "Richard is a respected and notable voice in Chicago media," Ramirez said. "His unparalleled insight into the entertainment industry, his unique cultural perspective, and his deep connection with the Chicago community make him an exceptional addition to our team."