The Museum of Broadcast Communications has reopened its doors in Chicago’s West Loop, offering visitors a nostalgic journey through the golden ages of television and radio. The revamped museum features classic collections alongside engaging, interactive exhibits.

Among the highlight exhibitions is a tribute to late-night television and the iconic Johnny Carson, who mesmerized audiences for three decades as the host of “The Tonight Show.” ABC7’s Hosea Sanders recently explored the museum’s offerings, sharing insights into its captivating displays.

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The museum’s origins trace back to the 1980s, a period when it began chronicling the rich history of broadcasting, creating a space for the public to learn, engage, and be entertained by the evolution of media.

After a year of revitalization efforts, the museum is ready to welcome guests. Dave Plier, the chairman and president, discussed the reopening with Sanders while seated at a faithful replica of Carson’s iconic desk.

“Back in the day, Johnny Carson captivated audiences, drawing in 20 to 30 million viewers each night,” Plier reminisced. “We’ve preserved all the original set pieces, including the famous Bozo drum, the grand prize game, and the drum filled with postcards from children eager to participate from home.”

There is even an interactive “I Dream of Jeannie” set, a Jim Beam collectible decanter inspired this design!

“A prop artist walked into a liquor store, saw the bottle, painted it, and it became the iconic bottle we know today,” Plier said. “For the last five decades, The Loop was on the air. Jonathan Brandmeier, Kevin Matthews, Steve and Garry – You can’t talk about The Loop without Disco Demolition at Comiskey Park – more people were ticked off that the game was canceled.”

When asked what his dream is for the museum, Plier said, “You get to smile you get to laugh you get to reengage with some of the things that you grew up with or something you’ve never seen before. In a world full of chaos these days, and the news, you’re getting 24-seven, whether it’s on television on your phone, on your iPad, this gives you a minute to pull the curtain down and just really relax and enjoy a fun experience.”