Copyright NBC 5 Chicago
A long-time fixture on the city’s museum scene is making its return, as the Chicago Museum of Broadcast Communications will open doors to a new pop-up in coming days. The museum, whose original location closed in 2023 after more than 40 years in operation, will re-open in a West Loop spot in coming days, with a special grand opening preview on Thursday and a full opening on Friday. According to museum officials, the new location will be at 440 West Randolph Street. The centerpiece of the new opening is an exhibit celebrating the 100th birthday of late night legend Johnny Carson, with “Johnny Carson: The Centennial” taking center stage. “Johnny Carson was more than a host—he was a national institution whose humor and curiosity united Americans for three decades,” David Plier, chairman, president, and CEO of the Museum said in the release. “This exhibit is a rare opportunity to celebrate a career that helped shape American culture.” "Johnny Carson: The Centennial Exhibit: will include rare artifacts from the museum's collection, the release said, as well as items on loan from the Johnny Carson Gallery at the Elkhorn Valley Museum in Norfolk, Nebraska. In addition to the Carson exhibit, a new offering called the “Evolution of Late Night Television” will also make its debut this weekend. Local A celebration of the 50th anniversary of WLUP-FM The Loop will also be featured, along with a salute to the 60th anniversary of the sitcom “I Dream of Jeannie.” Tickets for the grand opening will include a “Taste of Chicago” menu, specialty cocktails and beverages, and live entertainment. Tickets start at $100 per guest.
