About
Roger Ebert was a highly influential American film critic, historian, essayist, screenwriter, and author. He wrote for the Chicago Sun-Times for over four decades and was known for his accessible writing style and passionate advocacy for film. Ebert was the first film critic to win the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism, solidifying his status as a leading voice in film criticism. He championed independent and foreign films and played a significant role in shaping public opinion on cinema.
Career Timeline
Begins at Chicago Sun-Times
Ebert is hired as the film critic for the Chicago Sun-Times at age 24. He quickly develops a distinctive, accessible voice that makes film criticism engaging for general readers.
First Critic to Win Pulitzer
Ebert becomes the first film critic ever to win the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism. The award establishes film criticism as a legitimate form of journalism and makes Ebert a household name.
At the Movies National Success
His TV show with Gene Siskel becomes syndicated nationally as 'Siskel & Ebert.' The 'thumbs up/thumbs down' system becomes iconic and makes them the most influential film critics in America.
Siskel's Death, Show Continues
After Gene Siskel's death, Ebert continues the show with Richard Roeper. He maintains his cultural influence and the show's popularity for another decade.
Cancer Diagnosis
Ebert is diagnosed with thyroid cancer, beginning a series of health challenges. Despite treatment, he continues reviewing films and writing prolifically.
Loses Ability to Speak
Complications from cancer surgery leave Ebert unable to speak or eat. He adapts by embracing online writing, Twitter, and computer-generated speech, demonstrating remarkable resilience.
Life Itself Memoir Published
His memoir 'Life Itself' becomes a bestseller and receives critical acclaim. The documentary based on it further cements his legacy as more than just a film critic.
Dies After Cancer Battle
Ebert dies at age 70, just days after announcing he was scaling back his work due to cancer recurrence. His death prompts an outpouring of tributes from filmmakers, critics, and fans worldwide.
Enduring Critical Influence
Thirteen years after his death, Ebert remains the most famous and influential film critic in history. His thumbs-up system is still referenced, his reviews are still read, and he elevated film criticism to a respected art form, making movies accessible to millions while championing independent and international cinema.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026