Mike Nichols’ Early Days Hosting “Midnight Special” On Radio

Director Mike Nichols, who died Wednesday at the age of 83, got his start in Chicago, where among other things, he was the original host of "The Midnight Special" on WFMT Radio.

The program, devoted to folk music and more, continues today, with current host, Rich Warren, who lives in Champaign County. 

In an interview with Illinois Public Media's Jim Meadows, Rich told how the Jewish Nichols, who came to America as a child from Nazi Germany, launched the Midnight Special, while still in his early 20s.

Today, Warren hosts both the Chicago and national editions of the Midnight Special. The national edition airs on WILL-FM 90.9, Saturdays at 7 PM Central Time.