After More Than 40 Years of Dedicated Service, Craig Dellimore Retires with Honor
After more than four decades of distinguished reporting on Chicago news and politics, Craig Dellimore is bringing his extraordinary journalism career to a close.
A trusted and enduring voice on Audacy’s “News Radio 780” WBBM/WCFS (105.9), Dellimore began his tenure in 1983 — the same year Harold Washington made history as Chicago’s first Black mayor. From that pivotal moment through countless historic events, Dellimore has been a steady, thoughtful presence in the lives of Chicago listeners.
Among the many milestones he covered was the remarkable rise of Barack Obama, from Illinois state senator to President of the United States. “Being able to cover him as a person and cover the movement around him every step of the way — that was really something,” Dellimore reflected in an interview with PBS affiliate WTTW-TV Chicago.
Known for his journalistic integrity and deep understanding of Chicago’s political landscape, Dellimore became a fixture at City Hall, attending City Council meetings and mayoral press briefings with dedication and dignity. In recognition of his final mayoral press conference in June, the office of Mayor Brandon Johnson honored Dellimore for his decades of service and leadership in journalism.
As WBBM’s suburban bureau chief, Dellimore’s reporting extended beyond city limits, allowing him to connect with people from all walks of life. He approached each story with fairness and a genuine desire to reflect every community’s voice — especially those too often overlooked.
“Being an African American reporter in that realm was different,” Dellimore said. “It gave me an opportunity to get to know other people — and mostly Republicans, whom I would cover in the suburbs.”
Throughout his career, Dellimore remained committed to elevating underrepresented perspectives. “It’s better for us to look at other voices, listen to other voices,” he shared. “I don’t think newspapers or radio stations covered the south suburbs as much. I got to look at these things with an eye toward making sure that voices that aren’t normally heard, get heard.”
Craig Dellimore leaves behind a legacy defined by excellence, fairness, and profound respect for the truth and the people of Chicago. His voice will be missed, but his impact will endure for generations to come.
