NBC Chicago launching weeknight show hosted by Lou Canellis

NBC-owned WMAQ in Chicago, Illinois, is adding a new locally produced weeknight program to its early evening lineup, tapping longtime sports anchor Lou Canellis to host.

“Tonight with Lou Canellis” will debut Monday, Sept. 14, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. The live, half-hour program will blend sports, entertainment, pop culture and interviews with athletes, coaches, entertainers and other newsmakers.

The show will replace the syndicated “Access Hollywood,” which is ending its run.

The station has signed up Toyota as a marquee sponsor for the new show.

The show gives Canellis, who has spent more than 40 years in Chicago media, a platform extending beyond traditional sports coverage. Each edition will open with his take on the day’s major stories, followed by interviews, recurring segments and contributions from members of the “NBC 5 News” team.

“Chicago isn’t just my hometown, it’s the only home I’ve ever known,” Canellis said in a statement. “I was born here, raised here, went to high school and college here, and spent my entire sports broadcasting career here, so the opportunity to host a show that celebrates the people, stories and experiences that make this city so great is truly a dream come true.”

Former Chicago Bears head coach and “NBC 5 Sports Sunday” analyst Dave Wannstedt will be among the show’s regular contributors. Wannstedt will appear Mondays to review the Bears’ previous game and Thursdays to preview the team’s next matchup.

Friday editions will be hosted by Chicago sports media personality Laurence Holmes to allow for Cannelis’ work schedule to accommodate weekend sports coverage.

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Recurring features will include “Opening Drive,” a rapid rundown of the night’s leading topics; “Extra Points,” featuring viewer questions submitted through social media; “Who Ya Got?,” focused on upcoming matchups; and “By the Numbers,” highlighting statistics behind sports stories.

The program will also incorporate breaking news coverage, historical segments looking back at notable moments in Chicago, viewer trivia and remote broadcasts from sporting, entertainment and cultural events around the city.

“Lou has built a special connection with Chicago audiences through his authenticity, passion, and deep love for this city,” Kevin Cross, president and general manager of NBCUniversal Local Chicago, said. “Whether it’s sports, entertainment, culture, or the people who shape our community, Lou brings a perspective that resonates deeply with Chicago viewers.”

“Tonight with Lou Canellis” will also stream through the NBC 5 Chicago News streaming channel, NBCChicago.com and the NBC Chicago mobile app. The station’s streaming channel is distributed on platforms including Peacock, Roku, Samsung TV Plus, Amazon Fire TV, Xumo Play, Google Play, Freevee, TCLtv+ and Local Now.

The launch is part of a broader programming shuffle at WMAQ beginning Sept. 14, 2026. “NBC 5 News at 11” will expand to an hour, airing weekdays from 11 a.m. to noon, while lifestyle program “Chicago Today” will move to a half-hour format from noon to 12:30 p.m.

The premiere of “Tonight with Lou Canellis” will also lead directly into NBC’s live coverage of the “78th Primetime Emmy Awards” at 7 p.m.