5 Things You Never Knew About John Candy
If you’re a fan of ’80s comedy, you already love John Candy. The Canadian comedian’s larger-than-life personality, infectious charm and ability to infuse any situation with humor made him an icon during his all-too-brief big-screen career. The world was heartbroken when he passed away on March 4, 1994, at the age of only 43 years old. Luckily for fans, he left behind a legacy of TV and film work, including his early, career-making appearances on SCTV. In honor of the late star, let’s learn some fun facts about his life and career you may not know:
1 Steve Martin stepped up to help Candy’s family after he died
©Paramount/Everett Collection
When Candy passed away, the loss that deeply affected his friends and costars — one of whom stepped up in a truly impressive way. Steve Martin, who had worked alongside Candy in Planes, Trains & Automobiles, was navigating his own divorce at the time, but still offered support to Candy’s family, moving in with Candy’s widow and his two children to help.
2 He was friends with hockey legend Wayne Gretzky
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While most people associate Candy with comedy, he also shares a significant connection with sports. He was a good friend of hockey icon Wayne Gretzky and even co-owned the Toronto Argonauts with him. In fact, Candy was instrumental in bringing in football star Raghib “Rocket” Ismail to the Argonauts, signing him during the 1991 NFL draft. Candy’s son Chris cited his dad’s love of sports during a recent interview after appearing in a Dunkin’ Super Bowl ad.
3 His kindness was unmatched
Orion Pictures/Everett Collection
One of Candy’s most remarkable qualities was his kindness and interest in helping those in need. Tommy “Tiny” Lister tells a story about a time Candy gave a $10,000 gift to a security guard who was going through a rough time and on the brink of losing his home. Candy quietly slipped the money to him, never seeking any recognition. Whether it was helping a colleague or paying for a funeral for one of his assistants who lost a loved one, Candy’s generosity touched many lives during his short time on Earth.
4 He only made about $400 for his appearance in Home Alone
It’s hard to imagine Home Alone without Candy’s memorable cameo as Gus Polinski, the fun-loving polka band leader who helps Catherine O’Hara on her trip homeward. Candy reportedly improvised most of his lines and filmed everything in one day. He was only paid around $400 for the role, doing it as a favor to the movie’s producer and screenwriter, John Hughes. However, director Chris Columbus said that Candy was bitter about the low-paying gig later in life when he saw how popular the film became.
5 He appeared on Canadian postage stamps
Warner Brothers/Everett Collection
In 1998, Candy was inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame, honoring his achievements as one of the most beloved Canadian entertainers of all time. He was also featured on one of four commemorative postage stamps issued in 2006, celebrating “Canadians in Hollywood.”
Tell us, what was your favorite movie of his?
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’80s Where Are They Now
March 2023
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