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11 Chicago museum exhibits not to miss in 2023

Chicago is a city full of history, art, and culture — and you’ll find a lot of all those things in our acclaimed cultural institutions. And lucky for us, they’ll be unveiling a slate of jaw-dropping exhibitions all year long, from award-winning contemporary art and lost photography to ancient Roman artifacts and life-size outdoor sculptures. Here’s our list of just a few of the art exhibits at Chicago museums that are worth a visit in 2023. 

Nelly Agassi: No Limestone, No Marble at the Chicago Cultural Center

Nelly Agassi exhibit at the Chicago Cultural Center

Now open through Feb. 26, 2023
Named one of the best exhibits last year by the Chicago Tribune, this striking site-specific installation was built specifically for the soaring Chicago Cultural Center. Recently extended, the exhibit features works by Israeli-born Chicago-based artist Nelly Agassi and her reflections on the past, present, and future of a place.
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First Kings of Europe at the Field Museum

Photo by Lucy Hewett

March 31, 2023 – Jan. 28, 2024
Follow the paths of European ancient kings, queens, and rulers as they rose to power. Chicago’s Field Museum welcomes a collaboration of over two dozen museums and archaeological institutes in the Balkan Peninsula. First Kings of Europe tells the story of how a small group of individuals established tremendous power. Come discover weapons, jewelry, tools, and archaeological finds that have never been shown in North America.
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Pompeii at the Museum of Science and Industry

Feb. 23 – Sept. 2, 2023
Travel back in time to the city forever preserved. Pompeii: The Exhibition features a Roman city destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius nearly 1,900 years ago. Pompeii was miraculously preserved in a volcanic time capsule. The exhibit gives museumgoers a glimpse into what ancient Roman life was like. Explore over 150 ancient artifacts and multimedia experiences, like a Mount Vesuvius 4D eruption simulation.
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Salvador Dali at the Art Institute of Chicago

Salvador Dalí. Apparition of Face and Fruit Dish on a Beach, 1938. © Salvador Dalí, Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York, 2022. Photo by Allen Phillips/Wadsworth Atheneum

Feb. 18 – June 12, 2023
Art Institute of Chicago is showcasing the mind-bending works of iconic Spanish surrealist painter and printmaker Salvador Dali. Focusing on a pivotal time in the artist’s career, this exhibit features 25 paintings, drawings, and objects of Dali’s and showcases his desire to be seen and to disappear.
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Of the Earth at the Morton Arboretum

Stillness in Motion 2002; Locally reclaimed willow branches, wire, metal armature; Centre of Polish Sculpture, Chapel Gallery, Oronsko, Poland Photo Credit: Olga Ziemska

May 26, 2023 – spring 2025
Five large-scale sculptures by Polish-American artist Olga Ziemska will be created exclusively for a new exhibition Of the Earth at Morton Arboretum. Ziemska’s artistic mission is to remind people that everything is derived from the same basic elements — there is no separation between people and nature. This will be Ziemska’s largest work, created from reclaimed tree branches and natural materials throughout the Arboretum’s 1,700 acres.
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Gary Simmons: Public Enemy at the Museum of Contemporary Art

June 10 – Oct. 1, 2023
Gary Simmons: Public Enemy is the most comprehensive career survey to date of Simmons, an American multidisciplinary artist from New York City best known for referencing film, architecture, and American pop culture while addressing personal and collective experiences of race, class, and gender identity. The exhibit will cover 30 years of Simmons’ groundbreaking work.
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Not All Realisms at The Smart Museum of Art at the University of Chicago

Feb. 23 – June 4, 2023
The Smart Museum of Art at the University of Chicago’s new exhibition Not All Realisms focuses on photography, Africa, and the 1960s. Featuring photographic prints, reprints, books, magazines, posters, and other material that might prompt viewers to ask: did the sixties really ever end?
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Andy Warhol Portfolios: A Life in Pop at the Cleve Carney Museum

June 3 – Sept. 10, 2023
Andy Warhol was an iconic LGBTQ+ American artist famous for being a leader in the visual art movement, pop art. Andy Warhol Portfolios: A Life in Pop will spotlight over 200 original works as well as sprawling interactive experiences including a biographical exhibit, video installation, Children’s Print Factory, Studio 54 experience, and a Central Park-inspired outdoor space at the Cleve Carney Museum of Art in Glen Ellyn.
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Duane Linklater: mymothersside at Museum of Contemporary Art

March 11 – Sept. 3, 2023
Duane Linklater’s work addresses the historical exclusion of Indigenous content. Duane Linklater: mymothersside brings together sculptures, video, and digital prints on linen from the last decade as well as a newly commissioned work exclusively for the MCA’s atrium.
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The Girl in the Diary: Searching for Rywka from the Lodz Ghetto at the Illinois Holocaust Museum

May 18 – Sept. 24, 2023
This exhibit tells a story about a girl that never lost hope. Born in the Lodz Ghetto, Rywka Lipszyc kept a diary sharing her hope, despite losing her entire family. Her diary was discovered in 1945 in the Auschwitz-Birkenau Camp and 60 years later was translated and published as a book. The exhibit will display excerpts from Rywka’s diary as well as several artifacts from museums around the world.
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Gio Swaby: Fresh Up at the Art Institute of Chicago

Gio Swaby. New Growth 2 (triptych), 2021. Collection of Rasheed Newson and Jonathan Ruane. © Gio Swaby

April 8 – July 3, 2023
Fresh Up is a Bahamian phrase used to compliment someone’s style or confidence. Gio Swaby is a multidisciplinary artist whose textile-based art explores the intersections of Blackness and womanhood. She chose the title Fresh Up to set a confident and powerful tone for her exhibition. Fresh Up features seven of Swaby’s series from 2017 through 2021 as well as 15 new works. Swaby celebrates personal style, vulnerability, strength, beauty, individuality, and imperfections through her unique, powerful pieces.
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Vet DeMar DeRozan hits a milestone as the Bulls down the Hawks 111-100

There’s a certain amount of knowledge that comes out of playing 1,000 NBA regular-season games.

Lesson No. 1 that DeMar DeRozan lives by? Stay out of front office business.

The veteran made that very clear on Monday, as DeRozan reached that 1,000-game milestone in helping the Bulls beat the visiting Atlanta Hawks 111-100 at the United Center.

“That’s a lot of [bleepin’] games, isn’t it?” DeRozan joked of hitting that mark.

What he was very serious about, however, was letting his front office figure out what they want to do with a Bulls team that has now won 11 of its last 17 games, climbing to 22-24 on the season.

With the Feb. 9 trade deadline approaching, and teams in the Association already starting to make moves, there might be a lot to figure out.

“I’ve never done that,” DeRozan said, when asked if he would talk to executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas regarding which direction they could be heading. “Never in my career did that. I just control what I can control and that’s me going out there and competing and trying to win games. And I’m going to do that to the best of my ability.”

On a night where there wasn’t a lot of efficient offensive possessions, DeRozan did just that, leading the Bulls with 26 points, shooting 11-of-21 from the field.

Not that the victory came easy. With the 2022-23 Bulls it seldom does.

Whenever it felt like the Bulls had broken the Hawks (24-24) in the final quarter, there would be an Atlanta mini-spurt. Not enough to overcome the deficit, but definitely enough to keep the threat alive.

A John Collins alley-oop dunk with 6:37 left actually brought the Hawks to within three, but Zach LaVine had an immediate answer, hitting a three-pointer and then making two free throws. DeRozan then nailed a three to stretch it back out to 11, but here came the Hawks.

A Collins three-pointer and a Trae Young lay-up, and it was a game again.

Until it wasn’t.

The Bulls finally put the nail in the coffin in the final few minutes, with a LaVine jumper and then a Patrick Williams three-pointer that served as the dagger.

Just like that the Bulls had their third-straight win, and Williams had his first double-double of the season with 18 points and 10 rebounds.

“I think we’re getting [in a groove] as a team,” Williams said. “This time of the season, it’s that time to get into a groove and really solidify the identity you been building the first part of the season.”

As far as the direction of the team and the trade rumors that are expected to heat up, coach Billy Donovan had a very simple suggestion for any of his players that were curious of their standing. Just ask.

“If the players see or hear things about themselves, there’s an open door policy,” Donovan said. “Those guys can go up there and talk to [Karnisovas]. I know a lot of times the closer you get to that date Feb. 9, the more things get thrown out there, the more things happen and then you’re playing games, and you’ve just got to as best you can have players that are not going to get distracted by what may or may not happen.

“I do think every team in some way or another is being impacted. And I do think there’s a human element to, ‘Hey, my name’s all over the internet about being traded. My name’s all over the internet about going here or going there, doing this, doing that.’ The one thing Arturas has done a good job of is, ‘Hey listen, I’ll tell you exactly what’s going on, exactly what conversations have been.’ I think that hopefully puts players at ease.”

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DuPage County sheriff under fire for not backing assault weapons ban

Flanked by fellow congressmen, state lawmakers and county board members, U.S. Rep. Sean Casten on Monday repeated calls for DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick to retract a statement about the state’s new gun ban or resign.

Earlier this month, Mendrick issued a statement that said he believed the state’s new ban on high-powered guns and high-capacity magazines was unconstitutional.

“Therefore, as the custodian of the jail and chief law enforcement official for DuPage County, that neither myself nor my office will be checking to ensure that lawful gun owners register their weapons with the state, nor will we be arresting or housing law-abiding individuals that have been arrested solely with noncompliance of this Act,” Mendrick’s statement reads.

Casten and other lawmakers Monday called Mendrick’s statements irresponsible and reckless.

“His actions are going to make future mass shootings more likely,” Casten said during a news conference.

Mendrick on Monday rebuked Casten’s claim.

“There is absolutely nothing that we are doing or not doing that would make a mass shooting more accessible in DuPage County,” Mendrick said in a written statement. “In fact, I have asked on multiple occasions to increase penalties on all existing gun crimes, but it does not appear that they want to have that conversation.

“They seem more concerned with lawful gun owners than people illegally possessing guns,” he said.

Mendrick, who had previously suggested he believed compliance checks would be tied to the law, also took note that lawmakers on Monday said they would not be asking officers to go door to door to ensure weapons were legally registered.

“That is a big win for our law-abiding citizens and for law enforcement,” his statement read.

In clarifying that house-to-house inspections were not expected, state Rep. Anne Stava-Murray, a Naperville Democrat, said the weapons ban would come into play if the person was involved with another crime. Using an example of a domestic violence call where guns are involved, Stava-Murray questioned if Mendrick would follow the new law.

“Is he going to enforce our automatic weapons ban if that’s an unregistered weapon?” Stava-Murray said. “He said no, he’s not going to. That seems very dangerous.”

In his statement Monday, Mendrick, a Republican, said it was “disheartening” to hear Stava-Murray suggest he would not enforce the law when he has said he would enforce the weapons ban when it involves other illegal activity.

“When elected officials are blatantly untruthful, maybe they are the ones who should consider resignation,” Mendrick said.

Criticism against Mendrick, however, has grown since Jan. 17, when Democratic members of the county board’s judicial and public safety committee rebuked Mendrick’s statement. Democratic state lawmakers quickly joined in the criticism, calling on Mendrick to retract his statement.

On Thursday, Casten and five other Democratic congressmen who represent DuPage County signed a letter asking Mendrick if there are any other laws he views as unconstitutional and if he has directed his staff not to enforce any other laws because of his beliefs.

“We seek clarity right now,” U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Schaumburg Democrat, said during Monday’s news conference. “We need to know exactly what we’re dealing with, and we all uniformly demand that he enforce the law as written.

On Monday, U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Schaumburg Democrat, called on DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick to retract a statement saying that Mendrick would not arrest or house people in the county jail charged solely with noncompliance of the state’s new weapons ban.

Alice Fabbre/Daily Herald

“I just want to say with one voice, we cannot wait another day, we cannot wait another hour, we can’t wait another minute for the sheriff to do his duty, because lives depend on it,” he said.

Read more at dailyherald.com.

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Still some uncertainty with Bulls forward Javonte Green and his knee

It’s been an all-too familiar answer.

“He hasn’t done any running or jumping,” Bulls coach Billy Donovan said, when asked about the latest injury status of one of his players.

And no, for the first time in almost a year, it wasn’t Lonzo Ball he was talking about.

It was in fact forward Javonte Green, who had a minor exploratory surgery done two weeks ago on his right knee, and was still on the road back. The length of that journey was still up in the air, especially with the latest update from Donovan.

“All of it I think has been to regain his strength and weight room stuff, whatever mobility things they have him doing,” Donovan said. “I’ll probably get a better idea of where he’s at physically once they say he can get on the court and start moving around a little bit, but he has not been able to do any of that.”

What Donovan could say about Green on Monday was that even when he does return, the chances of him going back to the starting lineup was unlikely for the time being.

It was back in early December, following an embarrassing showing in Phoenix, that Green took over Patrick Williams’ starting spot, with Williams moved to the second unit. That look was more of a glance, however, as Green started in Golden State the next game, and had the knee issues in the wake of that loss.

He was in and out of games after that, but never as a starter because of the knee and the minutes restrictions put in place.

That ship may now have sailed.

“It’s hard to say what it would have been like going forward once he gets healthy and begins playing because you have to see where he’s at,” Donovan said of Green. “I just felt the way we were playing at that point in the season, we needed to look at something a little different.

“Patrick’s done a great job, and I don’t think it’s necessarily even making that change. It wasn’t necessarily about Patrick. It was about how do we kind of pair these groupings of five together where maybe we can get off to a better start?”

Home alone

Goran Dragic missed the game against the Hawks, and did not travel with the team to Indiana afterward, dealing with a non-Covid illness.

The hope for the reserve guard was that he starts to feel better in the next few days, and can join the team at some point on the three-city road trip.

“With the trip we had overseas, and the coming back, the amount of people he’s around, just trying to keep him separate from the team so it doesn’t spread would be important,” Donovan said.

Dragic was averaging 7.2 points and 2.8 assists per game off the bench.

Loaded up

While Donovan said that the medical staff was still monitoring Zach LaVine and his left knee when it comes to back-to-backs, the two-time All-Star sounded like the load management schedule he was under to start the season was long gone.

“I’m more than fine,” LaVine said of his health. “I’ve played every game since the beginning of the season, so I’ve played just as many games pretty much as anyone on the team.”

The last back-to-back that LaVine sat was way back in November, when he sat the first game of the two. He hasn’t missed a game since.

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White Sox’ Eloy Jimenez still resisting DH duty

Eloy Jimenez has always shivered from the thought of being a designated hitter, so word from manager Pedro Grifol that the 6-4, 240-pounder will work in right field during spring training with the idea of playing there in 2023 made the White Sox slugger’s new year.

“I’m really preparing myself for playing outfield more than DH,” Jimenez said Monday on a conference call.

With former Gold Glove winner Andrew Benintendi signed to the richest contract in franchise history to play left field, it makes perfect baseball sense to slot the defensively challenged Jimenez at DH, where he produced a .274/.343/.500 hitting line with 11 home runs in 50 games last season.

Jimenez also stayed healthy at DH, avoiding the perils of outfield walls, side walls, nets, wet grass and the occasional minor crash with a center fielder. And that’s big for a team that needs a bat that won a Silver Slugger Award in 2020 but has appeared in 122, 55, 55 and 84 games during his career.

That doesn’t mean he has to like taking four at-bats a night without picking up his glove.

“I don’t think I’m going to accept it,” Jimenez said.

But with Sox’ prized Cuban prospect Oscar Colas, a left-handed hitter, being touted as the top choice for regular right field duty, the Sox would have a swifter, more athletic and stronger-armed option than Jimenez to cover the corner that demands a stronger arm.

But the Sox want to keep Jimenez, who would be a 40-homer candidate if he played 140 games, mentally engaged and upbeat about coming to the park every day.

“I’ve told him to continue to work in the outfield, to work some in right field as well,” Grifol said.

It was in spring training two years ago when Jimenez jumped at the left field wall for an uncatchable ball and tore a pectoral muscle, and Jimenez has seemed the wiser for it, if not better. He was minus-2 in defensive runs saved in 231 innings in left field last season compared to minus-10 in 967 innings in 2019. So while he’s preparing himself for more outfield assignments than DH work, it doesn’t mean it will pan out that way.

In addition to Benintendi, Luis Robert, Colas, Jimenez and converted first baseman Gavin Sheets, the Sox also signed veterans Jake Marisnick, Billy Hamilton and Victor Reyes to minor league contracts with invitations to spring training added to the outfield mix for bench depth. Adam Engel wasn’t tendered a contract and signed with the Padres.

Perhaps motivated by his desire to play the field, be in better shape after his 2022 season was harpooned by a hamstring tear suffered running to first base in Minnesota in April, be ready to play outfield for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Class in March, or as part of a collective effort by a team that disappointed in a big way in 2022, Jimenez strongly hinted he’ll arrive at camp in better shape than last spring.

“I’m going to give you a surprise,” he said. “I’m not going to answer right now. You’re going to see me in spring training.

“It’s going to be a surprise.”

Truth be told, it would be something of a surprise if Jimenez actually gets substantial playing time in right field. The Sox pushed the envelope and suffered defensively playing Sheets and Andrew Vaughn out of position in the outfield in 2022 and wisely have Vaughn penciled in where he belongs at first base in 2023.

But Jimenez is bent on showing he’s not as big a liability with a glove in his hand as most believe he is.

“Last year when I was DH’ing more than [playing] outfield, it was because I got surgery [for the hamstring tear],” he said.

“If I’m working hard, I’m going to get better, and I want to play in the outfield.”

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Ian Mitchell trying to make most of opportunities with Blackhawks

Blackhawks defenseman Ian Mitchell is trying to impress the coaching staff and show he deserves to be in the lineup. At the same time, he’s not playing every night and must fend off thoughts that one mistake could send him to the press box for the next game.

Predictably, Mitchell is just attempting to stay focused on his game.

“I’m just trying to keep my head down, and when I do get an opportunity to play, try to make the most of it,” Mitchell said. “Obviously, it’s difficult to kind of come back in and out with your consistency and your rhythm of play, but that’s the nature of trying to break into the NHL. You’re not going to get in right away, so I have to do the best that I can with what I’m given.”

On Sunday, Mitchell was given an opportunity and connected for his first goal of the season in what ended up a 2-1 loss to the Kings. The third-period score is what coach Luke Richardson wants to see from Mitchell: a strong and accurate right-handed shot that exhibited his offensive ability.

“Yeah, just [Richardson] wants me to continue to do the things that I can offensively,” Mitchell said. “I think that’s a big strength of my game is moving the puck and the offensive blue line making plays, and then defensively winning my battles and moving pucks effectively on the breakouts, that’s where I can really be effective. So those are things that I have to excel at to make it for sure.”

During the off-day Monday, defenseman Isaak Phillips – scratched Sunday to make room for Mitchell – was assigned to Rockford while the Hawks recalled fellow blueliner Filip Roos from the IceHogs. Whether or not that means more consistent playing time for Mitchell remains to be seen, but his route to a steady role hasn’t been smooth.

Once considered a top defensive prospect coming out of the University of Denver, Mitchell appeared in 39 games during the abbreviated 2021 season. Instead of gaining more NHL experience, Mitchell skated just eight times for the Hawks during the 2021-22 campaign, and spent most of that season with Rockford.

Now 24, Mitchell is trying to establish himself. Sunday was only his 13th NHL game of the season.

“I think every player’s path is different and for defensemen sometimes takes a bit of a longer time, so I’ve just tried to continue to improve my game and that’s pretty much all I can do,” Mitchell said. “It’s not going to be an easy path to making the NHL, so I just have to continue to work and get to a point where I’m an NHL regular.”

Richardson said he and the coaching staff try to be open with players about what they’re doing with the lineup and why. By doing that, Richardson hopes that keeps players like Mitchell prepared and prevents them from thinking too much about the decisions. One example was Saturday in St. Louis, when Richardson played Phillips because he was a better matchup against a “heavier” Blues team.

Still, Richardson knows it’s not easy to go in and out of the lineup.

“It was nice to see him get rewarded at the end of the game,” Richardson said. “Hopefully that can build his confidence and continue.”

NOTES: The Hawks placed forward Tyler Johnson (left ankle) on injured reserve and recalled forward Luke Philp from Rockford. Johnson didn’t return after Sunday’s first period, and was spotted in a walking boot following the game.

– Late Sunday, Richardson said goalie Jaxson Stauber would be going on the upcoming road trip. Alex Stalock remains in concussion protocol.

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REPORT: Free agent RB Linked to Bears turns down Giants deal

A 2023 Free Agent says no to the Giants

A new report spills some important details of a contract a 2023 free agent running back turned down recently. Saquan Barkley is just one expensive player on the New York Giants offense the team will have to consider re-signing. (Quarterback Daniel Jones is up for a new contract as well.) And if the two parties can’t come to an agreement, Barkley would have a chance to go to Chicago.

According to Ralph Vacchiano with Fox Sports, Barkley turned down a contract this weekend worth $12 million a season to continue playing for the Giants. Barkley turned it down, as the two-time Pro Bowl running back is looking for a Christian McCaffrey-like payday near $16 million annually.

Ralph Vacchiano

@RalphVacchiano

… Barkley was offered around $12M/season during the bye week, per sources, and Schoen said they weren’t close in value. Barkley said yesterday he didn’t necessarily want to set the market, though I continue to hear he wants near Christian Mcaffrey’s $16M average. …

12:57 PM · Jan 23, 2023

It’s worth noting the Giants have the option to franchise tag Barkley to the tune of around $10 million next season. So the Giants have no incentive to increase their offer to $16 million.

Get Barkley in a Bears uni

Should Barkley become a free agent, the Bears must sign the speedy running back. According to Sportsline, the Bears have the third-best odds of signing Barkley. $16 million per year for Barkley’s services would be perfect for the Bears’ backfield. The Bears’ offense showed signs of life in the middle of the season before Khalil Herbert was injured. Bringing another lighting-fast option to the Bears’ offense would make them deadly.

Another reason not to balk at that offer. Look at what McCaffrey has done with the San Francisco 49ers. The trade that brought McCaffrey to San Francisco is the reason why the 49ers are in the NFC Championship game. If the Bears rebuild their roster in one that can make the playoffs this offseason with their newfound oodles of cap space, adding a player like Barkley would make the offense that much more dynamic if appropriately used.

Unlike the turtlish David Montgomery, who the Bears should look to move on from as a free agent this offseason, Barkley might be an option in the flat Justin Fields finds appealing. That’s one area of FIelds’ passing game he needs to improve on. Barkley would make that task so much simpler.

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100 Best Phone Chat Line Numbers With Free Trials in 2023

There are so many ways to meet new people, but nothing is more adventurous and electrifying than calling a phone chat line. It’s exciting to think about all the new people you could meet through a phone dating line, all from the comfort of your own home. It’s a testament to how far dating has come, and how phones have enhanced our ability to make meaningful connections.

We’ve put together a new list of the top chat lines in 2023. The top 10 are in the table and the runner-ups are below.

Best Free Phone Chat Lines of 2023

RankBrandPhone NumberFree TrialBest For1.LiveLinks888-901-268860 minutesMeeting local singles2.FreeChatGirls866-995-533130 minutesBest free trial3.Local Hot Chat888-710-26255 minutesGreat singles4.Livetalk800-444-LIVE10 minutesHybrid naughty/singles5.RedHot Dateline855-933-061030 minutesLate night chat6.Vibeline866-488-080930 minutesMeeting black singles7.Fonochat866-605-301630 minutesChatting with latina singles8.Talk121855-677-054530 minutesBest early day number9.Phone and Flirt800-381-54555 minutesBest flirty line10.Desires Chat888-598-83365 minutesBest confessional line

More Chat Lines To Call

Moonlight Line: 855-677-0538Local Hot Chat: 888-710-2625Lover’s Lane: 509-876-5930Adult Talk: 833-937-ADULTHowl Line: 888-655-6366Azul Line: 888-589-4999Sexy Live Connections: 800-317-4475Hollar Line: 888-650-2223Taboo Chat: 855-50-TABOOExotic Chat Line: 888-633-9453Lavalife Voice: 877-800-5282Girls Flirt Free: 800-364-4757Social Voice USA: 844-706-5518Hot Latinas Chat: 800-309-9388Latino Phone Chat: 888-702-8887Nightline: 877-834-4044Questchat: 888-889-6565Black Singlez: 800-287-3991Night Exchange: 866-917-8328Español Chat: 888-674-8887College Party Line: 888-598-3927Black Phone Chat: 800-319-7277America’s Hottest Talk Line: 206-876-56711PartyLine: 562-621-1201Grapevine Personals: 250-984-3322Metrovibe: 877-390-6677TangoPersonals: 800-810-8108MegaMates: 866-718-4930Metrochat: 206-876-56751-800-DATE-LINE: 800-DATE-LINE1800Personals: 213-687-7675Party Lines Uncensored: 712-432-4800

Chat Line 101

These toll-free numbers can be used to flirt or start a full-blown relationship with a hot local single. What’s more is that they all offer free trials, so you might even meet that special someone without paying a dime.

Rather than swiping through images on a vapid app, chat lines promote conversation and help you get to know your match on a deeper level. It’s also great for more sexual relationships too! Most chat lines follow a similar setup:

Call the number
Record a personal greeting in which you introduce yourself
Listen to other greetings to see who sounds most appealing
Send private messages through virtual mailboxes
Request to chat live with someone
Have an awesome phone chat experience

Scroll below for in-depth reviews of the best free phone chat numbers.

1. LiveLinks: 888-901-2688 – Best overall chat line

LiveLinks is the most prominent and well-known chat line in North America. For genuine connections, there’s no better line than LiveLinks. Not only has it been around since the 90s, but it’s also famous for its ability to establish all sorts of relationships, from the friendly to the romantic. Not many lines cater to such a large variety. It also implements great features, like the ability to add people you like to your Hot List. Like most lines, women chat for free. First-time male callers can enjoy a hefty one-hour trial, which is an extremely generous amount of free time that can be used to get to know a special someone.

2. FreeChatGirls: 866-995-5331 – Best for new chat line callers

FreeChatGirls is a naughty adult line where the ladies always talk for free. It’s a phone sex line without any paid operators, only real people who are just like you. This chat line is for hot like-minded individuals who want to dive into their fantasies with strangers on the phone. You are allowed a half-hour free phone chat trial, which you can use to meet up with a kinky girl on the line. Once you use up that time, you’re going to want to purchase one of their affordable memberships.

3. Local Hot Chat: 888-710-2625 – Best hybrid naughty/singles number

Local Chat may appear to be on the risqué side of phone dating, but it caters to callers of all types. Whether you’re looking for something serious or spicy, Local Hot Chat delivers. The gender ratio skews female, so if you’re want to chat with a single lady, this is the number to call. The 5 minute free trial allows you to browse profiles and request connect. As soon as you talk live, you’ll have to pay. But it’s worth it. The memberships are affordable. What’s one downside? The user interface (IVR) system is a little outdated, but it gets the job done.

4. LiveTalk: 800-444-LIVE – Best for real connections

LiveTalk provides a safe and secure phone dating environment for adults over the age of 18. People come to LiveTalk when they want to meet someone who is like-minded and genuine. Locals from different cities across the U.S. flock to this newer chat line. While it hasn’t been around since the 90s like LiveLinks, it’s one of the most favored and talked about chat lines right now. This premier phone chat service does a great job of connecting folks who are truly interested in creating a bond. You will never meet anyone flaky when you call LiveTalk.

5. Redhot Dateline: 855-993-0610 – Best late night number

Redhot Dateline is a line most notable for its ability to link sexy individuals to each other for steamy phone chat. It’s a very popular line, making finding a match a seamless experience no matter when you call in. If you are seeking a little wild fun, Redhot Dateline is for you. However, if romance is more your pick, we’d suggest heading to one of the lines dedicated to dating rather than erotic chat. Redhot Dateline doesn’t shy away from its namesake; it really is red hot. The only unfortunate thing about Redhot Dateline is that the 30-minute free trial is limited. To take full advantage, you’ll need a membership.

6. Vibeline: 866-488-0809 – Best black chat line

Vibeline has long been a chat line that has attracted Black callers. But in more recent years, it has expanded into a more diverse bunch of young and trendy folks. It’s known as a pretty “hip” line, which is why it brings in a younger and more vibrant crowd. Callers on this line are looking for all sorts of relationships. Some want something serious, but many are seeking a flirty fling. Women can talk on Vibeline free of charge and men can take advantage of that sweet 30-minute free trial. These 30-minutes can be spread out over time if you’d like, which is a nice and unique touch that other chat lines usually don’t offer.

7. Fonochat: 866-605-3016 – Best latina chat line

Brought to you by the same people who created LiveLinks, Fonochat is the best Latinx chat line available for Hispanic singles in your area. It’s an exciting place where Latinx people and those looking for Latinx partners can come and be themselves. If you prefer to chat in Spanish, that’s an option for you at Fonochat (but you don’t have to if you don’t want to). Like Livelinks, Fonochat allows you to create a Hot List of potential partners. You can also send private messages to people you wish to explore a friendship or relationship with.

8. Talk121: 855-677-0545 – Best to meet local singles over the phone

Talk121 is a chat line that’s been around for a long time and has done a good job at keeping up with the tech innovations in the chat line space. It’s a great competitor in the chat line game and keeps the other lines on their toes. Thousands of people call into Talk121 on a regular basis, and they stay because the line is always very reliable. Though aged, it doesn’t feel like an outdated chat line. It’s a leader in the industry and promotes everything from friendship to long-term relationships.

9. Phone and Flirt: 800-381-5455 – Best for quick, flirty phone chat

This safe and discreet chat line is used by people who want to laugh, flirt, and have a good time. When calling Phone and Flirt, there’s an underlying expectation that you are there to have a frisky good time. That doesn’t mean that all the callers are looking for erotic chat. Some are simply seeing who can give them those chat line butterflies. Phone and Flirt is very popular for this reason, saturated with younger flirters who love how unexpected and surprising this line can be.

10. Desires Chat: 888-598-8336 – Best for confessional

Desires Chat is a leading chat line that operates solely for adults who want to share their secret desires with one another. Discretion is taken very seriously over at Desires Chat, so you should feel completely free to let your wild side out on the line. There’s a level of open-mindedness not seen on every chat line that attracts some of the most interesting callers. Get lost in conversation with one of these dreamers on the Desires Chat line. You will feel as sexy as you will liberated.

Chat Line Dating FAQHow did you judge these lines?We look at a lot of things when deciding which chat lines are best. The first are reliability and call volume. We don’t want you calling a chat line that gets little to no calls because that means your dating or chatting options are far too limited. We chose lines that get a lot of callers, even during non-peak hours of the day. They also have to have free trials so that you can enjoy a taste of their features before you even pull out your wallet. And finally, we judge these phone chat lines based on user experiences we’ve read about, like on Mr. Chat Line, heard about, or experienced ourselves.

What should I say in my chat line greeting?Your chat line greeting is what other callers will hear before they decide if they want to meet you. It’s an introduction and should sound like one. But remember, you are going after someone for a flirty or romantic relationship. You aren’t at a job interview. With that in mind, try to keep your greeting short, sweet, and interesting. Show your personality off without taking up too much time. And make sure you sound excited when you are speaking. This will attract others to you!

Are chat lines safe?Chat lines are one of the safest ways to flirt with a stranger. Again, you are virtually meeting a new friend from the comfort of your very own home. As far as physical safety, that’s pretty much taken care of! Chat lines also work very hard to make sure they are both safe and secure so that you’ll feel as comfortable as possible expressing yourself on the line. You can always change your name if you wish to remain anonymous, and no line will ever share identifying or sensitive information. Be wary of people on chat lines who try to coax information out of you that feels too personal.

What happens when the free trial is up?When your free trial is up on a chat line, we’d encourage you to try another trial! But if you love the line you’ve just called or want to spend more time with a certain phone date, you will need to purchase a time package. These are usually pretty affordable. If you want to have erotic chat, chat lines are far less expensive than traditional phone sex numbers with much longer free trials.

How likely am I to hook up because of a chat line?Calling a chat line is like going to a popular local bar. There are so many people who you’ll meet that live very close to you. Most chat line callers are calling so that they can eventually hang out in person. That common goal of connecting with new people in your area is what makes chat lines such a unique and reliable way to meet someone new to flirt with, hang out with, and hook up with.

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100 Best Phone Chat Line Numbers With Free Trials in 2023

There are so many ways to meet new people, but nothing is more adventurous and electrifying than calling a phone chat line. It’s exciting to think about all the new people you could meet through a phone dating line, all from the comfort of your own home. It’s a testament to how far dating has come, and how phones have enhanced our ability to make meaningful connections.

We’ve put together a new list of the top chat lines in 2023. The top 10 are in the table and the runner-ups are below.

Best Free Phone Chat Lines of 2023

RankBrandPhone NumberFree TrialBest For1.LiveLinks888-901-268860 minutesMeeting local singles2.FreeChatGirls866-995-533130 minutesBest free trial3.Local Hot Chat888-710-26255 minutesGreat singles4.Livetalk800-444-LIVE10 minutesHybrid naughty/singles5.RedHot Dateline855-933-061030 minutesLate night chat6.Vibeline866-488-080930 minutesMeeting black singles7.Fonochat866-605-301630 minutesChatting with latina singles8.Talk121855-677-054530 minutesBest early day number9.Phone and Flirt800-381-54555 minutesBest flirty line10.Desires Chat888-598-83365 minutesBest confessional line

More Chat Lines To Call

Moonlight Line: 855-677-0538Local Hot Chat: 888-710-2625Lover’s Lane: 509-876-5930Adult Talk: 833-937-ADULTHowl Line: 888-655-6366Azul Line: 888-589-4999Sexy Live Connections: 800-317-4475Hollar Line: 888-650-2223Taboo Chat: 855-50-TABOOExotic Chat Line: 888-633-9453Lavalife Voice: 877-800-5282Girls Flirt Free: 800-364-4757Social Voice USA: 844-706-5518Hot Latinas Chat: 800-309-9388Latino Phone Chat: 888-702-8887Nightline: 877-834-4044Questchat: 888-889-6565Black Singlez: 800-287-3991Night Exchange: 866-917-8328Español Chat: 888-674-8887College Party Line: 888-598-3927Black Phone Chat: 800-319-7277America’s Hottest Talk Line: 206-876-56711PartyLine: 562-621-1201Grapevine Personals: 250-984-3322Metrovibe: 877-390-6677TangoPersonals: 800-810-8108MegaMates: 866-718-4930Metrochat: 206-876-56751-800-DATE-LINE: 800-DATE-LINE1800Personals: 213-687-7675Party Lines Uncensored: 712-432-4800

Chat Line 101

These toll-free numbers can be used to flirt or start a full-blown relationship with a hot local single. What’s more is that they all offer free trials, so you might even meet that special someone without paying a dime.

Rather than swiping through images on a vapid app, chat lines promote conversation and help you get to know your match on a deeper level. It’s also great for more sexual relationships too! Most chat lines follow a similar setup:

Call the number
Record a personal greeting in which you introduce yourself
Listen to other greetings to see who sounds most appealing
Send private messages through virtual mailboxes
Request to chat live with someone
Have an awesome phone chat experience

Scroll below for in-depth reviews of the best free phone chat numbers.

1. LiveLinks: 888-901-2688 – Best overall chat line

LiveLinks is the most prominent and well-known chat line in North America. For genuine connections, there’s no better line than LiveLinks. Not only has it been around since the 90s, but it’s also famous for its ability to establish all sorts of relationships, from the friendly to the romantic. Not many lines cater to such a large variety. It also implements great features, like the ability to add people you like to your Hot List. Like most lines, women chat for free. First-time male callers can enjoy a hefty one-hour trial, which is an extremely generous amount of free time that can be used to get to know a special someone.

2. FreeChatGirls: 866-995-5331 – Best for new chat line callers

FreeChatGirls is a naughty adult line where the ladies always talk for free. It’s a phone sex line without any paid operators, only real people who are just like you. This chat line is for hot like-minded individuals who want to dive into their fantasies with strangers on the phone. You are allowed a half-hour free phone chat trial, which you can use to meet up with a kinky girl on the line. Once you use up that time, you’re going to want to purchase one of their affordable memberships.

3. Local Hot Chat: 888-710-2625 – Best hybrid naughty/singles number

Local Chat may appear to be on the risqué side of phone dating, but it caters to callers of all types. Whether you’re looking for something serious or spicy, Local Hot Chat delivers. The gender ratio skews female, so if you’re want to chat with a single lady, this is the number to call. The 5 minute free trial allows you to browse profiles and request connect. As soon as you talk live, you’ll have to pay. But it’s worth it. The memberships are affordable. What’s one downside? The user interface (IVR) system is a little outdated, but it gets the job done.

4. LiveTalk: 800-444-LIVE – Best for real connections

LiveTalk provides a safe and secure phone dating environment for adults over the age of 18. People come to LiveTalk when they want to meet someone who is like-minded and genuine. Locals from different cities across the U.S. flock to this newer chat line. While it hasn’t been around since the 90s like LiveLinks, it’s one of the most favored and talked about chat lines right now. This premier phone chat service does a great job of connecting folks who are truly interested in creating a bond. You will never meet anyone flaky when you call LiveTalk.

5. Redhot Dateline: 855-993-0610 – Best late night number

Redhot Dateline is a line most notable for its ability to link sexy individuals to each other for steamy phone chat. It’s a very popular line, making finding a match a seamless experience no matter when you call in. If you are seeking a little wild fun, Redhot Dateline is for you. However, if romance is more your pick, we’d suggest heading to one of the lines dedicated to dating rather than erotic chat. Redhot Dateline doesn’t shy away from its namesake; it really is red hot. The only unfortunate thing about Redhot Dateline is that the 30-minute free trial is limited. To take full advantage, you’ll need a membership.

6. Vibeline: 866-488-0809 – Best black chat line

Vibeline has long been a chat line that has attracted Black callers. But in more recent years, it has expanded into a more diverse bunch of young and trendy folks. It’s known as a pretty “hip” line, which is why it brings in a younger and more vibrant crowd. Callers on this line are looking for all sorts of relationships. Some want something serious, but many are seeking a flirty fling. Women can talk on Vibeline free of charge and men can take advantage of that sweet 30-minute free trial. These 30-minutes can be spread out over time if you’d like, which is a nice and unique touch that other chat lines usually don’t offer.

7. Fonochat: 866-605-3016 – Best latina chat line

Brought to you by the same people who created LiveLinks, Fonochat is the best Latinx chat line available for Hispanic singles in your area. It’s an exciting place where Latinx people and those looking for Latinx partners can come and be themselves. If you prefer to chat in Spanish, that’s an option for you at Fonochat (but you don’t have to if you don’t want to). Like Livelinks, Fonochat allows you to create a Hot List of potential partners. You can also send private messages to people you wish to explore a friendship or relationship with.

8. Talk121: 855-677-0545 – Best to meet local singles over the phone

Talk121 is a chat line that’s been around for a long time and has done a good job at keeping up with the tech innovations in the chat line space. It’s a great competitor in the chat line game and keeps the other lines on their toes. Thousands of people call into Talk121 on a regular basis, and they stay because the line is always very reliable. Though aged, it doesn’t feel like an outdated chat line. It’s a leader in the industry and promotes everything from friendship to long-term relationships.

9. Phone and Flirt: 800-381-5455 – Best for quick, flirty phone chat

This safe and discreet chat line is used by people who want to laugh, flirt, and have a good time. When calling Phone and Flirt, there’s an underlying expectation that you are there to have a frisky good time. That doesn’t mean that all the callers are looking for erotic chat. Some are simply seeing who can give them those chat line butterflies. Phone and Flirt is very popular for this reason, saturated with younger flirters who love how unexpected and surprising this line can be.

10. Desires Chat: 888-598-8336 – Best for confessional

Desires Chat is a leading chat line that operates solely for adults who want to share their secret desires with one another. Discretion is taken very seriously over at Desires Chat, so you should feel completely free to let your wild side out on the line. There’s a level of open-mindedness not seen on every chat line that attracts some of the most interesting callers. Get lost in conversation with one of these dreamers on the Desires Chat line. You will feel as sexy as you will liberated.

Chat Line Dating FAQHow did you judge these lines?We look at a lot of things when deciding which chat lines are best. The first are reliability and call volume. We don’t want you calling a chat line that gets little to no calls because that means your dating or chatting options are far too limited. We chose lines that get a lot of callers, even during non-peak hours of the day. They also have to have free trials so that you can enjoy a taste of their features before you even pull out your wallet. And finally, we judge these phone chat lines based on user experiences we’ve read about, like on Mr. Chat Line, heard about, or experienced ourselves.

What should I say in my chat line greeting?Your chat line greeting is what other callers will hear before they decide if they want to meet you. It’s an introduction and should sound like one. But remember, you are going after someone for a flirty or romantic relationship. You aren’t at a job interview. With that in mind, try to keep your greeting short, sweet, and interesting. Show your personality off without taking up too much time. And make sure you sound excited when you are speaking. This will attract others to you!

Are chat lines safe?Chat lines are one of the safest ways to flirt with a stranger. Again, you are virtually meeting a new friend from the comfort of your very own home. As far as physical safety, that’s pretty much taken care of! Chat lines also work very hard to make sure they are both safe and secure so that you’ll feel as comfortable as possible expressing yourself on the line. You can always change your name if you wish to remain anonymous, and no line will ever share identifying or sensitive information. Be wary of people on chat lines who try to coax information out of you that feels too personal.

What happens when the free trial is up?When your free trial is up on a chat line, we’d encourage you to try another trial! But if you love the line you’ve just called or want to spend more time with a certain phone date, you will need to purchase a time package. These are usually pretty affordable. If you want to have erotic chat, chat lines are far less expensive than traditional phone sex numbers with much longer free trials.

How likely am I to hook up because of a chat line?Calling a chat line is like going to a popular local bar. There are so many people who you’ll meet that live very close to you. Most chat line callers are calling so that they can eventually hang out in person. That common goal of connecting with new people in your area is what makes chat lines such a unique and reliable way to meet someone new to flirt with, hang out with, and hook up with.

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Getting sober and drawing rabbits

An illustrated timeline of the Sober Rabbit comic strip’s title character’s journey includes Rabbit losing some years, finding sobriety, doing stand-up, and embracing recovery. Credit: Courtesy of Whitney Wasson

“Since I was a little kid, I’ve been drawing rabbits,” said Whitney Wasson.

The Chicago-based comics artist and comedian said that rabbits are cute and easy to draw, which were two ideal qualities for their early childhood doodles.

“[The drawing] could be terrible, but as long as you [make] long rabbit ears it reads as a rabbit,” Wasson said. “You can draw a rabbit very cute or you can make them deranged because of the way their noses and teeth look.”

The 1978 animated film Watership Down comes to mind. The film follows a group of animated rabbits on a bloody journey across the English countryside, and likely still lingers in the nightmares of anyone unlucky enough to have seen it during their childhood.

It was a similar schadenfreude of sending a cutesy bunny through the ringer that partially inspired Wasson’s web comic, Sober Rabbit.

“I did a drawing of a rabbit hungover on the toilet throwing up. That drawing is sort of what started the comic.”

Shelby, a character from Sober Rabbit, thinks about their cycle of drinking. Credit: Courtesy of Whitney Wasson

Started by Wasson in 2019, Sober Rabbit is a webcomic that follows the titular Rabbit and their animal friends through the recovery process. Rabbit works to find life balance after becoming sober and a life-changing accident. Brenda the Pigeon recovers from a history of disordered eating and self-image issues. Shelby the Squirrel relapsed during the pandemic.

“My dad is a bartender and bar owner, so I was in his bar as a little kid sometimes, and I would draw the regulars as characters when I was very little.” Wasson said. “My dad’s friends at the bar were very cartoonish people. There’s always like, bar archetypes you know, I know that from my experience as an alcoholic.”

In December, three years and a pandemic later, Wasson released a comic book in print, Scars and Strips Forever, which highlights panels from Sober Rabbit’s Instagram posts and more. They said it was a rare opportunity to take a holistic look inward at how the series had progressed.

“[Sober Rabbit] is grounded in reality and then has elements of fiction. But it’s still all sort of coming from and is based on what I’ve observed in recovery,” said Wasson.

Rabbit’s adventures cover subjects ranging from death and grief to disability and LGBTQ+ relationships. Sober Rabbit strips are concerned mostly with daily struggles and small victories. Wasson says that giving an honest look at the recovery process was paramount.   

“Being a person in the world and absorbing how recovery is shared in art, people tend to focus on very black and white stuff. Someone hits rock bottom, then they recover. It’s heroic or it’s tragic.”

Sober Rabbitsoberrabbit.com and at Instagram

Before Sober Rabbit, Wasson worked as a self-described “road dog” comedian from 2013 to 2018. Originally from Fort Smith, Arkansas, Wasson performed and produced shows across the south and midwest before landing in Chicago in 2015. Comedy was a much-needed creative release but also helped to intensify drinking habits Wasson had struggled with before picking up the microphone. 

“Stand-up is a brutal world if you’re not also consuming substances like everybody else is. It was pretty rough,” Wasson said. 

Wasson originally leaned into their drinking within their comedy, but concerns over the level of dysfunction the drinking was causing were piling up. Motivated by friends and the future of their stand-up career, Wasson got sober in 2016.

“I didn’t plan to get sober, I had to get sober,” they said. 

Wasson continued to hit the stage throughout the process. Sobriety had made doing stand-up easier to manage for them thanks to more sleep and an easier time remembering sets. Motivated by the experience, Wasson began hosting the Serenity Now!sober space-oriented comedy show in 2018 to benefit other comics and audience members also in recovery.

Whitney Wasson Credit: Courtesy of Whitney Wasson

Stand-up held Wasson’s complete focus until 2019, when an injury left them disabled.

“I was walking to a show by my old job, regular day, nothing going on,” they remember. “This woman in a sedan runs two red lights and hits me in profile while crossing the street. If she had hit me a little bit head on, I would have either gone underneath the car or over it.”

Wasson’s foot was broken, among other injuries, and a misdiagnosis meant it never healed correctly. A layoff followed shortly after, forcing Wasson fully into freelance visual arts, which they had done occasionally to support their standup.

“What the fuck do I do?” Wasson said, remembering the seismic shift in priorities.

“I basically just said to people, ‘can I draw you a podcast logo? Can I make somebody a poster? What can I do?’ I started literally just sitting there and drawing stuff.”  

Scars and Strips Forever: Selected Strips (2019-2022) by Whitney WassonSelf-published, paperback, $15, soberrabbit.bigcartel.com

Sober Rabbit, which Wasson had begun officially only a few weeks before their accident, graduated from a hobby to full-time project

“Obviously Sober Rabbit is a project about recovery, but I think it really is a rediscovering of a hobby thing, that I was like ‘oh yeah, I love doing this.’”

Wasson had already published a few zines on recovery, and the 15-page The Farewell Party, a sort of prequel comic to Sober Rabbit. Wasson describes The Farewell Party on their website as “a standalone comic about my—er—RABBIT’s teenage hijinks.”

An excerpt from Whitney Wasson’s comic The Farewell Party shows Rabbit drawn in black and white. Credit: Courtesy of Whitney Wasson

“[The Farewell Party] is sort of like a supercut of a lot of things,” they said. “Yes, there’s some exciting spicy stories to tell about me cleaning up, but my adolescence is when I became an alcoholic. I sort of have to go back and talk about it pretty hard and the emotional problems that jump-started the drinking.”

Sober Rabbit was also motivated by what Wasson felt was a lack of first-person stories about addiction, especially in the world of comics.

“I’ve had a lot of newly sober people reach out to me, and that’s probably one of the most touching things that’s come from this.”

To Wasson, recovery is a long game. Getting sober is an unglamorous daily commitment and remains so well after the fact.  

“In reality, for me anyway, it’s mundane. Drinking is monotonous,” Wasson said. “You think about the Johnny Cash movie. They sort of only do the highlight reel of the most dramatic stuff. I bet Johnny Cash sat there in rehab a little bit.”

“He probably did some journaling. He probably lit a candle.”

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