Joining Saturday Night Live in 1990, Farley turned his fearless physical comedy into instant fame, peaking with his 1990 Chippendales audition sketch opposite Patrick Swayze. His manic energy and the Matt Foley character made him a breakout star. The platform launched a brief but beloved film career.
Born in Madison, Wisconsin in 1964, Farley honed his improv at Chicago's Second City. His fearless, physical style made him a natural for Saturday Night Live.
Joining SNL in 1990, he became a sensation with the Chippendales sketch and the Matt Foley motivational speaker. His commitment to physical comedy recalled idol John Belushi.
Tommy Boy and Black Sheep made him a film draw alongside David Spade. His career was cut short when he died of an overdose in Chicago in December 1997, aged 33.