John Candy
John Candy: A Comedic Icon
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Born on October 31, 1950, John Wilmot Candy was a Canadian-American actor, comedian, and writer. He is often referred to as simply "John Candy" or affectionately called "Big Kahuna Burger," a nickname inspired by his iconic character in the movie _Spaceballs_.
Birth and Death Dates
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October 31, 1950 - March 4, 1994
John Candy's life was cut short when he passed away at the age of 43 due to complications from a heart attack while filming _Wagons East!_
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Canadian-American Actor, Comedian, Writer
With his versatility as an actor and comedian, John Candy left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Early Life and Background
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Born in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada, John Candy was raised by his parents, Sidney and Evangeline Candy. His father owned a successful meatpacking company, which provided a comfortable upbringing for John and his siblings. Growing up, John developed a passion for sports, particularly hockey and baseball. He attended high school at Newmarket High School and later enrolled in the University of Toronto.
However, John's true calling was in comedy. In 1975, he graduated from the Second City Theater program in Chicago, where he honed his comedic skills alongside future stars like Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, and Dan Aykroyd.
Major Accomplishments
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John Candy's impressive career spanned over two decades, with numerous iconic roles that showcased his incredible range as an actor. Some of his most notable achievements include:
National Lampoon's Vacation (1983): John Candy played the memorable role of Lasky, a lovable but rough-around-the-edges park ranger.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987): He starred alongside Steve Martin as Del Griffith, a salesman who befriends a straight-laced marketing executive on a chaotic road trip.
Spaceballs (1987): John Candy brought to life the iconic character of Barf, a half-man, half-dog who joins a group of rebels in a parody of _Star Wars_.Notable Works or Actions
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John Candy's contributions extended beyond his acting career. He was also a writer and producer on several projects, including:
The Blues Brothers (1980): John Candy co-wrote the screenplay for this musical comedy classic.
* Uncle Buck (1989): He starred in this family comedy as the titular character, a bachelor who becomes an unlikely guardian to his nieces and nephew.
Impact and Legacy
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John Candy's impact on the entertainment industry is immeasurable. His ability to bring comedic relief and heartwarming moments to films has made him a beloved figure among audiences worldwide.
With a career spanning over 20 years, John Candy left behind an impressive legacy that continues to inspire new generations of actors, comedians, and writers. His commitment to his craft, combined with his infectious humor and kindness, have cemented his place as one of the greatest comedic talents of all time.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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John Candy's quotes and memorable lines from movies like _Uncle Buck_ and _Planes, Trains and Automobiles_ continue to bring laughter and joy to audiences. His ability to connect with people through his characters has made him a household name.
Moreover, John Candy's passing at a relatively young age has led to an outpouring of tributes and remembrances from fans and colleagues alike. His memory continues to inspire new projects, ensuring that his legacy will live on for generations to come.
Quotes by John Candy

My big break down here was working with Steven Spielberg in '1941.' It was a very small role, as Corporal Foley, who was part of the tank crew with Dan Aykroyd.

Our audience for SCTV was older than today's moviegoers, and with the cost of making movies being what it is today, it's hard for the studios to take the kind of risks we took.

I would come home and re-create every movie. Our backyard became a battleship, a war zone, a western town.

I was the sixteen-year-old driving everyone to bingo and shopping. It was quite a responsibility. It made me the man in charge of a lot of things.

My first movie role was a supporting performance in a Canadian film called 'Final Lady.' It was a great opportunity for me at the time.

My salary for 'Splash' was $350,000. I got about $800,000 for 'Summer Rental.' So, yes, I thought, 'Well, here's a chance to get some furniture for the house and some clothes for the kids.'



