CHICAGO — The eclipse over Chicago led thousands to the beaches and streets, where they gasped and cried out as the sun partially disappeared.
For WGN meteorologist Tom Skilling, it was an especially awe-inspiring event. The famed meteorologist hugged and high-fived people around him and wept as the eclipse occurred Monday afternoon.
"Oh, my word," Skilling said. "Wow. This is amazing. What do you think of this, this?"
At another point, he told viewers, "I'll get my act together, guys."
His voice cracking, Skilling apologized for his tears.
Skilling's heartfelt reaction earned him praise from fans:
The only thing better than watching the eclipse is Tom Skilling watching the eclipse. #SolarEclipse2017 @Skilling pic.twitter.com/o0t7u5Nyk1
— WGN TV News (@WGNNews) August 21, 2017
Tom Skilling out here crying. Dude lives for this #solareclipse pic.twitter.com/zyzYBYy6F5
— Rana ッ (@ranassi27) August 21, 2017
Crap. Tom Skilling crying got me choked up. Old men excited about science warm my heart. #SolarEclipse2017
— Myndi Love (@myndilove) August 21, 2017
Talk about real reaction to #SolarEclipse2017 @Skilling is crying on @WGNTV. He's so dedicated to his craft, that he's openly weeping. #👊👊
— Andy Masur (@Andy_Masur1) August 21, 2017
#Eclipse2017 Tom Skilling's on WGN crying right now.
— Alex (@alexdavid12) August 21, 2017
I was crying with Tom. Tom's excitement made this all worth while. Best moment ever. I love you Tom. Thanks for sharing your moment with us
— Nickie Rollins (@RollinsNickie) August 21, 2017
@WGNNews
— Chris (Rad) Finch 4 (@RadFinch) August 21, 2017
My man, Tom Skilling, crying tears of happiness, is something everyone must know, during this #SolarEclipse.
Tom Skilling crying on TV made this whole cloud situation so much better #SolarEclipse2017
— lauren (@_lor1988) August 21, 2017
Tom Skilling crying during the eclipse gave me life
— Emily Muszynski (@emdogg12) August 21, 2017
Tom Skilling crying as he witnessed the eclipse is the most beautiful thing he has seen in a while. #wgntv @WGNMorningNews #EclipseDay
— The Shaun (@TheShaunSays) August 21, 2017