Dean Richards

Tom Dreesen has had a lot of rich memories through out the years. Today, of course, he remembered the attacks during 9/11, and Dean asked Tom about some of his favorite memories on stage and what he remembers the most about hanging out with Frank Sinatra. Tom is in town on September 27th, for “An Evening with Tom Dreesen“. It’s an evening that you can enjoy right here in Chicago at the Museum of Broadcast Communication.    

This week, Dean invited two incredibly talented performers on to talk about theater, and in particular, the show they helped create and star in. Christine Mild and Shaun Whitely play Rhetta and Jim in “Pump Boys and Dinettes” and Dean talked with them about the creative freedom they were given to create what will be playing at The Theater at the Center in Munster, Indiana.  

After a busy weekend out in LA, Dean shared his experience talking with the cast and crew of “Sully” – the depiction of Captain Sullenberger landing the commercial flight on the Hudson River, saving everyone on board. Dean found himself chatting with Director, Clint Eastwood about his approach to the film, how he thoroughly enjoyed the process, and his affirmation with Chicago.  

Dean and producer Bennett Wakenight cruise into the Labor Day weekend with a preview of the September DVD releases. They chatted about the comprehensive list Bennett compiled telling listeners about what to be ready for this month. September 6th: All The Way // Equals // The Iron Giant: Signature Edition Blu-Ray Debut // Money Monster September 13th: Now You See Me 2 // The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Ninth Season // Captain America: Civil War // Popstar: Never Stop […]

One of the most anticipated theater seasons is upon us and Timeout Chicago’s Kris Vire joined Dean to talk about all of the shows that will be gracing the Chicago theater scene this month: Hamilton // Visiting Edna // Man In The Ring // Wonderful Town // Tug of War: Civil Strife // Hand of God // The Bardy Bunch // Bleacher Bums

Some may say that Labor Day marks the end of summer, but Dean refuses to accept it, so he’s proving it on the grill. Dean chatted with Weber Grill Master and Cookbook author, Jamie Purviance about the what’s going on the grill this weekend such as a manageable pulled pork, beer can chicken, and much more!  

Dean was in LA for the weekend, so Elton Jim filled in and, like a worried parent hovering over the babysitter, Mr. Richards called to check in on the show. Dean, who was watching the WGN 720 video live stream, called Jim out on how jumpy he is. “You’re jiggling around on the chair like you have not ants in your pants, but  like wasps in your pants.”

It always seems like John Legend is working on something new, and his latest role is executive producer of “Southside with You”, detailing the story behind President Barack Obama, and Michelle (Robinson) Obama’s first date. Dean and John also talked about new music on the horizon, his WGN America show, “Underground”, and what it’s like being a first time dad.  

Rose Kennedy lead a long eventful life, overseeing “America’s Royal Family”, the Kennedys. Her story of being in and out of the political cultural life has been brought together in a one woman show at The Greenhouse Theater portrayed by award winning actress, Linda Reiter. “Rose” will be showing through September 25th at the Greenhouse Theater.  

Despite summer being almost over, there is still time to be gardening. Dean chatted with WGN favorite, Jim Fizzell about his best late summer gardening tips. Jim also took questions from listeners such as, “what cold weather plants should be planted now?” and “how does one avoid cracking in your tomatoes?”  

This weekend, Dean avoided the busy crowds of the Air and Water Show. Instead he wanted a more intimate perspective so he checked in with Capt. Benjamin Fizzell…from the cockpit! Capt. Fizzell is also the grandson of WGN favorite, Jim Fizzell, who introduced Benjamin to the show as a child and he recounts seeing the show from the beach and now from the cockpit.  

Tony Bennett played his annual show at Ravinia last night and at 90, he is still one of the best. WGN favorites, Steve and Johnnie were at the show last night and Dean chatted with Johnnie to hear how it all went first hand.  

Jim Corti is at a good place in his life and Dean is enjoying it just as much as he is. Why? That’s because Jim is putting on some fantastic musicals at the Paramount Theater in Aurora. Dean chatted with Jim about the upcoming premier of Mama Mia, in early September. Dean and Jim also previewed what shows will be coming out during the holiday season such as The Little Mermaid, Sweeney Todd, and more!  

The list of Robert Redford movies is overwhelming. He now adds the childhood remake of Pete’s Dragon to his list of movies, and Dean got a moment to sit down and catch up with Robert about his most recent project. Robert touched on his love for the city of Chicago, the whimsy that comes along with his character, and what’s on the horizon with his next project…potentially with Jane Fonda.  

Summer is synonymous with ice cream and Chicago has some of the best ice cream selections in the country. Ashok Selvam is the Sr. Editor over at Eater Chicago and he picked out some of the best old school spots and new school trends around the Chicagoland area to chat about with Dean. From Homers to The Plush Horse, Dean and Ashok dove in spoon first.