Ebert’s return to TV show uncertain

Film critic Roger Ebert suffered another health setback earlier this month, but friends and co-workers of the “Ebert & Roeper” co-host remain guardedly optimistic about his condition.

Ebert, who has been hospitalized in Chicago since June, underwent his third surgery in as many months on Aug. 6. He was treated for a recurrence of salivary cancer in June; the following month, surgeons repaired a burst blood vessel. His wife, Chaz, characterized the latest procedure as “minor” in a letter posted on Ebert’s website, but media insiders are buzzing that doctors removed at least part of his jaw and that the critic’s recovery could take many months.

“Tonight Show” host Jay Leno and director Kevin Smith have filled in on the syndicated TV show during Ebert’s absence. On this week’s show, critic John Ridley, host of AMC’s “Movie Club,” will substitute. Buena Vista Television, which syndicates “Ebert & Roeper,” has not revealed future plans.

Gwynne Thomas, executive vice president at Buena Vista Productions, visited Ebert this month and confirmed that he must communicate through written messages because he’s unable to speak. But she added, “He is alert, and his spirits are soaring.”

“I know he’s going to come back,” she said. “He is the same old Roger. The guy is indefatigable. He’s turned his hospital room into a screening room and is making jokes and flirting.”

John Barron, editor in chief of the Chicago Sun-Times, Ebert’s home paper, said co-workers are taking it one day at a time.

“I don’t think any of us know what the situation will be,” he said. “I don’t think two months ago any of us thought Roger would still be in the hospital.”

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