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
Anne Hathaway opens up about her role in 'The Idea of You' and handling fame
Anne Hathaway, an Oscar-winning actress, takes the lead role in "The Idea of You," a new romantic film available for streaming on Prime Video.
Challengers, new tennis drama starring Zendaya, hits theaters this week
Currently one of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, Zendaya both stars in and produces the steamy new tennis drama "Challengers."
Jason Alexander makes Chicago stage debut with new comedy 'Judgment Day'
Long before he made us laugh as George Constanza on the iconic sitcom “Seinfeld," actor Jason Alexander was a Tony Award-winning actor working on Broadway.
'Civil War' director Alex Garland opens up about film's most gripping scene
The controversial new thriller “Civil War” is the number one movie in America, taking the top spot at the box office with nearly $26 million.
Andrew Scott stars in new Netflix series 'Ripley'
What was once an iconic ‘90s thriller is now being turned into a new Netflix series.
Colin Farrell stars in new detective series 'Sugar'
Colin Farrell stars as John Sugar in Apple TV+’s new detective series “Sugar,” a throwback to the old Hollywood detective films of the 1940s.
'Civil War' hits theaters this week
Destined to become one of the year’s most talked about – and likely controversial – films of the year, “Civil War,” hits theaters this week.
New prequel to 'The Omen' unveils sinister origins: 'The First Omen' hits theaters Friday
Nearly half a century since the release of the original film, audiences are in for a new cinematic treat with a prequel to the 1976 horror classic "The Omen."
Chicago's hidden gem: David Dastmalchian's rise to stardom in blockbuster films
You might not know his name, but when you see his face, you feel like you know David Dastmalchian from — something.
Emmy-winning actor Ewan McGregor reflects on career highlights, talks new Paramount+ series
Renowned actor Ewan McGregor, known for his roles in major films over the past quarter-century, is now showcasing his talents on the small screen with the debut of the new Paramount+ limited series, "A Gentleman in Moscow."