Charges for “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett. Accusations, missteps and big money in the run-up to election day. A disturbing revelation about the Aurora mass shooter. And Manny Machado disses Chicago.

A special hourlong presentation celebrates Joel Weisman’s 40th anniversary as host – and his final appearance at the helm of the show he helped create. “For four decades, Fridays have always been my favorite day of the week,” he says.

(James Cridland / Flickr)

The Chicago Sun-Times is up for sale and its chief rival has agreed to buy it. We hear from the editors of both newspapers.

President Donald Trump calls the media the “enemy of the American people.” We get reaction from some local editors.

From Chicago's top spot in fatal police-involved shootings to a successful road trip for the White Sox, Joel Weisman and his panel have your week in review.

Lollapalooza

The Conversation Continues Online

Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists debate the merits of Lollapalooza, and the impact of the Blackhawks' new training facility coming to the West Side. 

Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists discuss this week’s top stories in politics, business, and sports. 

Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists discuss U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin’s endorsement of Tammy Duckworth in the race for Senate and the widening field of candidates seeking to replace Mark Kirk who’s running for re-election, as well as businessman Willie Wilson’s announcement to run for president. 

Eddie Arruza and his panel discuss this week’s headlines.

In the wake of the massacre at of the Paris offices of the satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo, Eddie Arruza and his panel of journalists discuss freedom of the press, and whether fear of retribution impacts reporters. 

Joel Weisman and his guests continue their conversation online with more about the Catholic school closings and the Mayor’s race.  

Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists discuss this week’s headlines.

Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists discuss the polls surrounding Illinois’ political races.

Joel Weisman and his panel of journalists discuss Cardinal Francis George and debate the appeal of gubernatorial candidate Bruce Rauner. 

Carol Marin and her panel of guests break down the top races as the candidates make their final push before Tuesday’s March Primary election. Joining us are Chicago Tribune Editorial Page editor Bruce Dold, Chicago Sun-Times political reporter Natasha Korecki, and Crain’s Chicago Business political columnist Greg Hinz. Visit Chicago Tonight's 2014 March Primary Elections page for the latest stories, forums and videos.

Eddie Arruza and his panel of journalists discuss the week's top headlines.