John Candy
Candy rose through Toronto's Second City and its sketch series 'SCTV' in the 1970s, building a reputation as a warm, larger-than-life comic. In 1984 he co-starred with Tom Hanks in 'Splash,' a breakthrough that turned him into a beloved Hollywood movie star.
A Canadian Original
John Franklin Candy was born in Newmarket, Ontario, in 1950 and raised in working-class Toronto. He found fame through the city's Second City troupe and the sketch series 'SCTV,' winning Emmys for his writing.
Hollywood's Gentle Giant
After 'Splash' (1984) made him a star, Candy brought warmth to comedies like 'Uncle Buck' and 'Planes, Trains and Automobiles.' His everyman likability made him one of the era's most cherished performers.
A Sudden Farewell
While filming 'Wagons East' in Durango, Mexico, Candy died of a heart attack in his sleep in March 1994 at age 43. Dan Aykroyd eulogized him, and fans mourned a comedian known as much for his kindness as his laughs.
Career Timeline
- 1950Born in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
- 1976Joins Toronto's Second City and 'SCTV'
- 1984Breakout role in 'Splash' with Tom Hanks
- 1987Co-stars in 'Planes, Trains and Automobiles'
- 1989Stars as the lovable lead in 'Uncle Buck'
- 1991Co-owns Grey Cup-winning Toronto Argonauts
- 1993Appears in hit 'Cool Runnings'
- 1994Dies of a heart attack in Durango, Mexico
Biggest Hits
- Candy's father died of heart disease at age 35 on John's fifth birthday, foreshadowing his own family risk.
- He co-owned the CFL's Toronto Argonauts, who won the Grey Cup in 1991 under his ownership.
Portrait: Mike F. Campbell · CC BY 2.5 · via Wikimedia Commons