
Jake Hamilton
Emmy winner Jake Hamilton began his film critic career at the age of 14 by writing multiple letters to the Houston Chronicle, all describing why he would be perfect for the position. He was awarded the position in April 2002. His first review -- of the summer blockbuster "Spider-Man" -- was published on May 9, 2002.
As Hamilton's reputation became more reputable, he was allowed to branch out into out into Top Ten Lists, Oscar Coverage and even the subject of publicity contests. While working with the Houston Chronicle, a publicity contest quickly formed into the popular "Win A Date With Jake Hamilton" contest (modeled after the film, Win A Date With Tad Hamilton).
Hamilton would continue to write hundreds of reviews throughout the next four years before leaving the Chronicle in May 2006 upon graduating from Clear Lake High School.
After leaving the Chronicle, Hamilton began searching for an even bigger outlet -- television. This led him to audition for the late-night Houston PBS talk show, "The After Party" with Emmy-winning host, Ernie Manouse. He was awarded the position and began his career in television in September, 2006. Alongside Variety film critic, Joe Leydon, Hamilton participated in weekly chats about the latest cinematic offerings for the quirky, late-night talk show before "The After Party" was finally canceled in January 2007.
Having developed a close relationship with Manouse while working on "The After Party," Hamilton was brought on as a producer for the HoustonPBS documentary, "The Last 24," which was met with critical praise when it aired in August 2007.
In March 2008, KHOU-TV (the Houston CBS outlet) contacted Hamilton about appearing as a guest on their morning talk show, Great Day Houston. Met with a warm reception by the studio and audiences alike, Hamilton was awarded his own segment, "Jake's Takes," where he now continues to cover film and interview actors and actresses on a weekly basis.
In October 2010, Hamilton moved onward and upward, bringing "Jake's Takes" to FOX TV in Houston, where he won an Emmy for "Best On-Air Talent." Sitting across from the likes of Tom Hanks, Brad Pitt and George Clooney, Hamilton became a staple of Hollywood reporting and even became the subject of controvery himself when he entered into an interview battle with Samuel L. Jackson, which went viral around the world.
In November 2013, Hamilton then made the giant move to Chicago, bringing "Jake's Takes" to the great team at "Good Day Chicago," for FOX-TV (WFLD-TV).
The latest from Jake Hamilton
Actress Megan Suri takes on horror tradition as 'final girl' in 'It Lives Inside'
Big scares return to the big screen this weekend in the new horror film “It Lives Inside." Actress Megan Suri sat down with FOX 32 Entertainment Reporter Jake Hamilton to discuss the tradition of “final girls" in horror films.
Jennifer Aniston reveals scare tactic used against 'Friends' cast during negotiations
The new season for Apple TV+’s hit Emmy-winning series “The Morning Show" premieres Wednesday, marking a return for one of the streaming service’s most popular dramas.
Joe Mantegna reflects on creation of epic SNL 'Bears superfans' sketch
To celebrate FOX 32’s inaugural Orange Friday, Joe Mantegna returned to Good Day Chicago to talk all things Bears – including taking part in the now-iconic Saturday Night Live sketch which helped coin the phrase “Da Bears!”
Pigskin poll: Vote for the best football film of all time
What’s your favorite football movie of all time? Find out how you can vote for your favorite.
New film 'Golda' tells story of former Prime Minister of Israel
The story of the former Prime Minister of Israel, Golda Meir, is being brought to the big screen – courtesty of a performance from Oscar-winner Helen Mirren and Oscar-winning filmmaker Guy Nattiv.
'Retribution' staring Liam Neeson hits theaters with thrilling reviews
Actor Liam Neeson may be 71-years-old, but he’s still one of the most popular action stars kicking butt on the big screen today.
'Indiana Jones' star discusses franchise's 'chess game' of characters
Harrison Ford’s famed archeologist is whipping his way into homes as “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" hit video on demand Tuesday.
'Equalizer 3' director Antoine Fuqua reflects on Denzel Washington's iconic 'King Kong' line
Two-time Oscar winner Denzel Washington is reteaming with director Antoine Fuqua for the fifth time in the third and final film in the "Equalizer" trilogy, hitting theaters this weekend.
Chicago classic 'The Fugitive' celebrates 30th anniversary
Widely considered to be one of the greatest movies ever filmed in Chicago, "The Fugitive" is celebrating its 30th anniversary this week.
'The Hill' tells the true, triumphant story of MLB player Rickey Hill
The life of Major League Baseball player Rickey Hill has been turned into a new big screen sports drama called "The Hill," hitting theaters this weekend.