Robservations: Former Fox 32 producer now making Marvel magic

"Ghost Rider" (Photo: Marvel Television)

Robservations on the media beat:

Paul Zbyszewski

A former morning show producer for Fox-owned WFLD-Channel 32 is flying high among Hollywood’s superheroes. Chicagoan Paul Zbyszewski, who worked for "Fox Thing in Morning" in the ’90s, has just been signed as an executive producer of “Ghost Rider” and “Helstrom,” two live-action shows based on the Marvel comics characters. They’re slated to be launched on the streaming platform Hulu in 2020. Zbyszewski previously wrote and produced “Marvel’s Most Wanted” and “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” for ABC. “As a lifelong Marvel fan, I feel incredibly fortunate to help bring this darker, thrilling corner of the comic book universe to life, and I’m just grateful to everyone at Marvel Television and Hulu for the opportunity,” he said. “Marvel’s known for all the heart, humor, and action they put into every series, but this time around we’re adding some scares to that mix. I think we’ve found a compelling way to dissect some of our deepest fears through the experiences of our two lead characters.” Continue reading

David Kaplan renews with NBC Sports Chicago

David Kaplan

Despite widespread rumors that he might be jumping to a new sports network being formed by the Chicago Cubs and Sinclair Broadcast Group, veteran sportscaster and franchise player David Kaplan is sticking with NBC Sports Chicago.

In signing a multiyear renewal with NBC Sports Chicago, Kaplan will continue as the premier personality on the cable and digital television home of the Chicago White Sox, Bulls and Blackhawks. His new deal, via agent Steve Mandell, was announced Wednesday. Terms were not disclosed. Continue reading

Silver Circle festivities to shine on CLTV

Silver Circle (Photo: Kathleen Virginia)

Even if you can’t attend the $180-a-plate Silver Circle Honors Dinner Friday at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel in Chicago, you can still see highlights of the gala induction ceremonies.

For the sixth time in the 27-year history of the event, the 2019 awards will be taped for broadcast on local TV. Tribune Broadcasting cable news channel CLTV will air a 90-minute recap at 7 p.m. May 11 (with a rebroadcast at noon May 12). Continue reading