Stories by WTTW News
Jane Lynch
We catch up with Chicago native actor and comedian Jane Lynch, who just won another Emmy Award.
Old St. Pat's Church
Documentary Shines Light on Revival of Church
A new documentary tells how a struggling Chicago church reinvented itself and revitalized a declining neighborhood.
Living Your Truth
Arts Program Teaches Young People to Find Their Voice
A vibrant 17-year-old with a beaming smile, Mekel Johnson walked into the room prepared for an interview that could grant him the opportunity to end his summer with a memorable trip.
Gubernatorial Race Heats Up
Candidates Announce Debate Schedules
Republican candidate for governor Bruce Rauner agrees to a series of debates with Gov. Pat Quinn. But why is the Quinn camp calling Rauner’s debate schedule "phony" and "concocted?" Paris Schutz has the latest.
John Dean on the Watergate Cover-up
Former White House counsel John Dean talks about the Watergate cover-up, that missing 18 and a half minutes of tape, and what the president knew and when he knew it.
Viewer Feedback: 8/20
Remembering Robin Williams
We share what you had to say about recent stories when we read some of our viewer feedback.
Update on State's Medical Cannabis Program
Everything you need to know about Illinois’ Medical Cannabis program. On Wednesday, Aug. 20, state officials will hold a question and answer session for potential patients, growers, and sellers of medical marijuana.
Raider of the Lost Art
Curator of Suburban Museum Has Sixth Sense for Finding Forgotten Artwork
A little-known Chicago artist is finally getting the attention he deserves – in Des Plaines.
Controversial Comments Resurface in Pending Mayoral Race
A Facebook group entitled “Karen Lewis for Mayor of Chicago” posted an offensive comment Sunday that brought back reminders from Rahm Emanuel’s first campaign for congressman.
Ash-har Quraishi on the Situation in Ferguson
We talk with an Al Jazeera correspondent about being on the ground in Ferguson and the impact police presence is having on protesters and the press.
John Dean on ‘The Nixon Defense’
Forty years ago, President Richard Nixon resigned his presidency following the Watergate scandal. We talk to Nixon's legal counsel John Dean, described by the FBI as "the master manipulator of the cover-up."
Fighting Emerald Ash Borer
We see how the city is taking care of Ash trees hit by the Emerald Ash borer.
New Study Addresses Perceptions of Police
The Black Youth Project at the University of Chicago released a report Friday, Aug. 15 detailing the lack of trust in the police and legal system.
Elected School Boards
It will be a hot issue in the upcoming mayoral campaign—an elected school board. Chicago Students Union will march in favor of an elected board in a rally. We discuss the growing debate on Chicago Tonight.
Local Chef Wins ‘Hell’s Kitchen’
We meet the Loyola University chef and "Hell's Kitchen" winner who will be leaving for Las Vegas to work in Gordon Ramsay's restaurant.
Viewer Feedback: 8/18
Genetically Modified Foods
We share what you had to say about recent stories when we read some of our viewer feedback.
Farina City
Local Actor Makes His Mark, Steps Out of Father’s Long Shadow
Joe Farina doesn’t strongly resemble his dad -- the late actor Dennis Farina -- but he shares a similar everyman quality.
Weekend Events Around Town: 8/15-8/17
The annual Air and Water show, an international neighborhood festival, and an interactive arts festival; Chicago Tonight knows what’s going on this weekend.
Web Extra: The Week in Review: 8/15
Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists discuss comedian Robin Williams' suicide, and how his battle with depression could impact the national conversation on mental illness.
Chicago Tonight: The Week in Review: 8/15
Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists discuss this week’s headlines.
Rooftop Owners Sue City to Block Wrigley Renovations
Owners of eight rooftop clubs across the street from Wrigley Field filed a lawsuit today to block the Chicago Cubs renovation and expansion plans of Wrigley Field.
Republican Day at the Illinois State Fair
Carol Marin reports on GOP Day at the State Fair in Springfield.
Local Team Plays in Little League World Series
Viewing Party to be Held for Jackie Robinson West All-Stars
Hundreds gathered on the south side to watch Morgan Park's Jackie Robinson West All-Star team win game one of the Little League World Series. Paris Schutz has the latest.
Genetically Modified Foods
Should GMO Foods Be Labeled?
As the battle over Genetically Modified foods or GMOs heats up, with bills to require GMO labeling on foods introduced in more than 20 states, including Illinois, we talk to advocates on either side of the issue.
Native Advertising
Native advertising has been popping up all over news sites and social media. It allows brands to promote products sometimes within what appears to be a news article, but it’s actually paid content. Are consumers being duped into reading ads that they don't know are ads? We discuss with our panel.
Exploring Chicago’s Dirt Jumps
Many of Chicago's favorite places are out in the open -- Millenium Park, Michigan Avenue, and Wrigley Field. But we also like to show you the hidden treasures, even if they're hidden in the woods. Jay Shefksy brings us to The Garden, home of Chicago’s dirt jumps.
Trending
2026 Chicago Summer Festival Guide
Pritzker Signed 78 Bills Last Week, Including Requirements for Boater’s Insurance and Home Service Appointment Windows
What Impact Would a Switch to Permanent Daylight Saving Time Have?
Agency Charged With Probing Chicago Police Department Misconduct Created ‘Vacuum of Accountability’ By Clearing Backlog: Watchdog
Trump’s 50% Tariffs on Canada Risk Igniting a Fresh Trade War
Sign up for the WTTW News newsletter