Chicago to Install Siskel and Ebert Statue by 2028

The six-foot-five bronze sculpture will feature the iconic critics at the One Two Pru office complex.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Commercial

Chicago to Install Siskel and Ebert Statue by 2028

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A new interactive bronze statue of film critics Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert is set to arrive near Millennium Park in early 2028. The sculpture will be installed at the One Two Pru office complex to honor the duo.

Why it matters

The project serves as a tribute to the legendary critics who helped define Chicago's cultural identity. It is being funded through a mix of corporate donations and a dedicated Hollywood memorabilia auction.

The six-foot-five bronze statue, designed by artist Preston Jackson, will be located at the 2.2-million-square-foot One Two Pru office complex. The site includes a 41-story tower completed in 1955 and a 64-story tower finished in 1990.

The players

Wanxiang America Real Estate Group

The real estate firm owns the Two Pru towers and is overseeing the broader property redevelopment.

Preston Jackson

The artist was commissioned to design the bronze sculpture of the two film critics.

Chicago Gateway Green

This organization is leading the public fundraising efforts to finance the statue project.

Pam Kasper

She is spearheading the fundraising effort for the sculpture project.

Heritage Auctions

This firm is hosting the live Hollywood memorabilia auction to support the fundraising goals.

The details

The statue, titled Siskel & Ebert: Two Thumbs Up, depicts the pair standing behind their theater seats, allowing visitors to sit beside them for photos. It will be positioned on the west end of a public plaza located along Lake Street.

1955: One Pru completed.
1990: Two Pru completed.
2024: Property redevelopment began.
November 14, 2026: Hollywood memorabilia auction concludes.
Early 2028: Statue installation expected.

Culture Shift

The statue follows a pattern set by the 2024 redevelopment of the One Two Pru property to revitalize the complex. This project reflects a broader move to integrate public art into major commercial real estate transformations within the city.

Visitors and residents can expect a new interactive public space at the One Two Pru plaza once the statue is installed. The site will be designed specifically to allow for photos, changing how locals interact with the office complex grounds.

The takeaway

The project demonstrates how corporate office redevelopments can serve as hubs for local cultural memory. By incorporating interactive art, developers aim to increase public engagement with historically significant sites.

What happens next

The Hollywood memorabilia auction, which contributes to the project's funding, is scheduled to conclude on November 14, 2026. Wanxiang America Real Estate Group is also slated to launch the next phase of the property redevelopment in 2027.