Who Are Siskel and Ebert
Siskel and Ebert were a famous American film critic duo best known for their television show Siskel & Ebert & the Movies. Gene Siskel was a critic for the Chicago Tribune, and Roger Ebert was a critic for the Chicago Sun-Times. Together they reviewed new releases, assigned thumbs-up or thumbs-down ratings, and became a household name in movie culture.
The pair first appeared together on television in the early 1970s and later signed a production deal with Tribune Media Services. Their show evolved through several titles, including Siskel & Ebert & the Movies and later At the Movies. They continued working together until Gene Siskel's death in 1999, after which Roger Ebert continued the series with new co-hosts.
What Did Siskel and Ebert Do
Siskel and Ebert reviewed hundreds of films per year, using a clear thumbs-up or thumbs-down system that audiences could easily understand. Their reviews appeared in print columns, on television, and later online, giving viewers a quick, consistent way to judge new releases.
Roger Ebert continued reviewing films and writing after Gene Siskel's passing, becoming the first film critic to win a Pulitzer Prize for Criticism. Ebert also expanded his reach through a popular blog, social media, and a YouTube channel, maintaining a strong presence in film discussion until his death in 2013.
Why Siskel and Ebert Matter Today
Siskel and Ebert helped define modern film criticism by making it accessible to everyday viewers. Their format influenced later shows, digital review platforms, and social media creators who now share movie opinions with global audiences.
Today, their legacy lives on through archived episodes, books, and ongoing references in entertainment media. The RogerEbert.com site continues to publish reviews and criticism, carrying forward the standards they set for clear, honest film evaluation.
