PRESS RELEASE: City Council Expected to Pass “Bob Newhart Way” Honorary Street Sign Ordinance.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2025
CITY COUNCIL EXPECTED TO PASS “BOB NEWHART WAY” HONORARY STREET SIGN ORDINANCE
Ald. Manaa-Hoppenworth introduced the ordinance to celebrate Newhart’s legacy in Edgewater.
CHICAGO—Today, the City Council is expected to pass an ordinance designating 5800-5930 N Sheridan Road as “Bob Newhart Way.” The legislation was originally introduced by 48th Ward Alderwoman Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth.
The street receiving the designation is located in front of the Thorndale Beach Condominiums, often dubbed the “Bob Newhart Building” for its appearance in the opening sequence of “The Bob Newhart Show.”
“For years, fans have come to our neighborhood to take photos in front of the iconic ‘Bob Newhart Building’ from the opening sequence of the show,” Ald. Manaa-Hoppenworth said. “We’re excited to install this street sign honoring a piece of entertainment history right in our backyard.”
Newhart was a beloved American comedian who graduated from Loyola University after growing up in Chicago’s Austin community. “The Bob Newhart Show” was the first major sitcom set in Chicago.
He is remembered for his love of the Chicago Cubs and for being a Chicago ambassador to Hollywood, with his “Midwest nice” demeanor setting him apart in the cutthroat world of show business.
“Bob Newhart was an Edgewater local who made a legacy for himself not just as a great comedian but also as a kind person,” Ald. Manaa-Hoppenworth said. “That’s what we’re celebrating with this designation.”
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