MIKE SCHMIDT

Michael Schmidt

Chicago, the Windy City. City of broad shoulders. Hog butcher to the world, and birthplace to any number of historical figures, many of whose importance in the course of human events can never be overstated.

Michael Schmidt is not one of those figures.

Oh sure, he was born in Chicago. Unfortunately folks, that’s where the similarities end. He certainly can’t claim any accomplishments of real import. He spends a lot of time babbling on his podcast “The 40 Year Old Boy,” now available on iTunes; he’s also been a writer for the shows “Cheap Seats” and “Starface,” among others. However, when it gets right down to it, can these achievements hope to hold a candle to those of his fellow Chicagoans?

World changers like political activist Jesse Jackson, or renowned actress Jennifer Beals, whose astonishing turn in the film “Flashdance” left Americans slack-jawed and aching for more. Cindy Crawford, one of the original supermodels hails from Chicago, as does syndicated newspaper columnist Clarence Page. Their status as Chicagoans only succeeds in pushing Michael Schmidt further down the ladder of recognition of those who call this famous burg their hometown.

I know Michael Schmidt has appeared in comedy clubs across America…so what? I know Michael Schmidt appeared in the film “Baseketball”. That is no match for having reviewed it, as respected film critic and Chicagoan Roger Ebert has done, in print no less. Make no mistake-Michael Schmidt is a talented comedian who will keep you entertained. As a historic figure from Chicago, however, Michael Schmidt certainly has a lot of catching up to do.