Stories by Matt Masterson

Weeks after recusing herself from the felony prosecution of “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett, Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx sent texts to her second-in-command about the case, saying it appeared the office was “overcharging” the actor.

Loyola-Chicago coach Porter Moser says he plans to stay at the school after he reportedly talked to St. John’s about its job.

Autopsies on the five employees killed when a gunman opened fire in February at a suburban Chicago manufacturing plant have determined that all of them were shot more than once.

Illinois’ long-term pension debt tops $130 billion. What Gov. J.B. Pritzker plans to do – and what he won’t do – about that crushing burden.

Watch the April 16, 2019 full episode of “Chicago Tonight.”

The young American photographer Brendan Hoffman tells us about his new show at the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art.

Would you forgo your privacy for more effective technology? Owners of voice-activated home devices may need to start asking themselves that question.

A fire has devastated the 850-year-old cathedral in Paris. What will it take to rebuild the iconic structure? Chicago Tribune architecture critic Blair Kamin joins us in discussion.

The U.S. empire stretches farther than you may think. The new book “How to Hide an Empire” details America’s acquisition of foreign land.

Illinois spends more per pupil on school administration than almost every other state in the union, according to a new report. What the state is doing to address spending.

In recent years, illustrations from 1970s Mexican comic books have earned a dedicated following of fans and collectors. We visit a new pulp art show at a Chicago gallery.

A pair of bills would strip the state of its authority to regulate endangered species that are protected at the federal level but that might require further protections within Illinois.

A pair of bills would increase funding for biomedical and scientific research at top U.S. agencies and “defend America’s place as a world leader in scientific progress,” U.S. Rep. Bill Foster said in a statement. 

New research suggests seniors who aren’t on guard against scams also might be at risk for eventually developing Alzheimer’s disease.

The nonprofit Sesame Workshop said Tuesday a selection of Muppets will take part in a 10-city trip to celebrate the show’s 50th anniversary campaign with free park festivals, live performances and kid-friendly activities.

The world reacted with shock, horror and prayers to the massive fire Monday at the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, united in grief and in solidarity with the people of France.

They’ll be faced with a lot of work when they reconvene from spring break. We discuss taxes, marijuana and meeting Chicago Mayor-elect Lori Lightfoot with Illinois lawmakers from both sides of the aisle.

After 77 years, the founding company of Ebony and Jet magazines will soon cease to exist. We talk with two former writers and editors about the history and legacy of Johnson Publishing.

Watch the April 15, 2019 full episode of “Chicago Tonight.”

Federal prosecutors allege a Chicago developer steered business to 14th Ward Ald. Ed Burke in exchange for Burke’s help getting a City Hall permit.

Have you ever wanted to make your own neon sign? You may soon be in luck. Neon artists, led by a 30-year veteran of the School of the Art Institute, plan to offer art classes and studio space on the North Side.

Author and journalist Katy Butler tells us about her new book, “The Art of Dying Well: A Practical Guide to a Good End of Life.”

Spencer Technology Academy teacher Myra Timms, 33, is facing a misdemeanor battery charge after she allegedly made physical contact with one of her male students last week.

Prepare to head home from “Djembe!” – the irresistibly engaging interactive music show now at the Apollo Theater – with callouses on the palms of your hands and a giant grin on your face.

State law enforcement and education officials want to spread the word about Illinois’ “move over” law after 16 state troopers were struck on roads in the first four months of 2019.

The difference between graffiti and public art is generally in the eye of the beholder – and for some, they are one in the same. But discerning between the two will get a little easier for city crews in Chicago.