John Candy

John Franklin Candy (October 31, 1950 – March 4, 1994) was a Canadian actor and comedian who is best known for his work in Hollywood films. Candy first rose to national prominence in the 1970s as a member of the Toronto branch of the Second City and its SCTV sketch comedy series. He rose to international fame in the 1980s with his roles in comedic films such as Stripes (1981), Splash (1984), Brewster's Millions (1985), Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Spaceballs (both 1987), The Great Outdoors (1988), Uncle Buck (1989), and Cool Runnings (1993). He was also known for his supporting roles in The Blues Brothers (1980), National Lampoon's Vacation (1983), Little Shop of Horrors (1986), and Home Alone (1990); and had dramatic roles in Only the Lonely and JFK (both 1991). In addition to his work as an actor, he was a co-owner of the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League (CFL), and the team won the 1991 Grey Cup under his ownership. Candy died in 1994 at the age of 43. His final two film appearances, Wagons East and Canadian Bacon, are dedicated to his memory. Early life and education Candy was born on October 31, 1950, in Toronto and grew up in Newmarket, Ontario. The son of Sidney James Candy and Evangeline Candy, he was brought up in a working-class Catholic family. His childhood home was at 217 Woodville Ave in East York, Ontario. According to the 1921 Canadian census records Candy’s father Sidney was born to English parents who emigrated to Canada in 1913. John Candy's mother was of Polish descent. His father died of complications of heart disease at age 35 in 1955 when John was five years old. Candy attended Neil McNeil Catholic High School where he played offensive tackle on the school’s football team and participated in drama club. Long before considering acting, Candy aspired to become a professional football player, but a knee injury during his high school football career prevented him from fulfilling his dream. He later enrolled in Centennial College to study journalism, and then went to McMaster University. He started acting while at college.