Richard Roeper Accepts Buyout from Chicago Sun-Times After 37 Years

Richard Roeper, the veteran film critic, is leaving the Chicago Sun-Times after 37 years, having accepted a buyout as part of significant staff reductions at the publication. Roeper, who succeeded Roger Ebert as the paper's film reviewer, expressed excitement for his future endeavors, including continuing his film and TV reviews on ABC-7 Chicago and his podcast. The Sun-Times is facing drastic cuts, with 20% of its staff, or 35 employees, accepting buyouts to address budget challenges. This situation reflects a broader trend in the media industry, where many newspapers are downsizing and struggling financially. Roeper's departure highlights the ongoing changes in journalism, particularly in print media, as the industry shifts towards younger, less expensive talent. His last day at the Sun-Times is set for Friday, with no announcement yet on a replacement for his role.