Val Warner Makes a Comeback Post-Surgery While Ryan Chiaverini Heads to Indianapolis for March Madness Final Four

CHICAGO (WLS) — Exciting news for fans of “Windy City Weekend,” as Val Warner makes her much-anticipated return following a six-week hiatus due to knee surgery.

While Val rejoins the team, Ryan Chiaverini heads to Indianapolis. He will be covering the Fighting Illini men’s basketball team as they compete in the March Madness Final Four.

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Filling in for Chiaverini, WGCI Radio’s Leon Rogers steps up to the plate. He is joined by journalist Cody LaGrow and WGCI host KeKe to delve into the details of the game and explore a variety of topics.

On Friday’s “Host Chat,” Val shares uplifting updates, discussing her recovery journey and celebrating her daughter Zoe’s new role as a weekend morning anchor at the WINK news station.

The hosts also tackle a hot topic, diving into recent controversies surrounding former Bulls player, Jaden Ivey.

Harry Lennix

Special guest Harry Lennix joins the discussion with Val and Leon to talk about his latest project as the musical director for “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” This accomplished Chicago native boasts an impressive career spanning both stage and screen.

Lennix’s stage and screen work stretches far and wide. He earned his first Ollie Award for roles in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” and “Caught in the Act.” Though Lennix thrived in the spotlight, he continues to excel behind the scenes. Hear was he has to say!

Spend or save?

Film critic Richard Roeper is back on “Windy City Weekend” with this week’s “Spend or save?”

“The Drama” – SPEND
This highly anticipated film starring Zendaya and Robert Patterson lived up to the hype! The two stars play a happily engaged couple, but they are put to the test due to a shocking twist.

“Untold: The Death & Life of Lamar Odom” – SAVE
This Netflix documentary follows Lamar Odom from his highs to his lows. From his rise to the NBA and his highly publicized marriage with Khloe Kardashian, to surviving multiple heart attacks and stroke after overdosing as Nevada brothel.

“Your Friends & Neighbors” – SPEND
This series follows a hedge fund manager who loses his job and resorts to criminal methods in an effort to maintain his lavish lifestyle. This series stars Jon Hamm, Olivia Munn, Amanda Peet and James Marsden.