Windy City Wisdom
Over the years, our Backroom interviews have featured wise and witty insights from high-profile locals: actors and authors, musicians and moguls, priests and politicians — even a genuine astronaut. Here are their...
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Charna Halpern
The legendary improv instructor, 65, on Del Close, Tina Fey, and slow comedy
Rich Koz
The Svengoolie host, 65, on horror films, stick-on mustaches, and Mark Hamill
Karen Lewis
The Chicago Teachers Union chief, 64, on battling cancer and Bruce Rauner
Victor Skrebneski
The famed portrait photographer, 87, on shooting Bowie and advising Daley
Rich Melman
The Lettuce Entertain You founder on his tough dad and abusive customers
Jesse White
The secretary of state and tumbler king on fast talking and fast driving
Jeff Garlin
The comedian on his napping skills and his man crush on Joe Maddon
Sugar Rautbord
The socialite novelist on gossip, allies, and a scary boat trip with Trump’s ex
Robert Falls
The Goodman Theatre artistic director on five-hour plays and cleaning toilets