New Biography Explores John Candy’s Hidden Struggles and Legacy

A newly released biography, titled “John Candy: A Life in Comedy,” offers an in-depth look at the personal challenges faced by the beloved Canadian actor and comedian John Candy. Written by Paul Myers, the book reveals how these private struggles contributed to the profound affection fans and colleagues held for him, transcending his film roles, which ranged from iconic performances in “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” to “Uncle Buck.”

According to Dave Thomas, a close friend and fellow comedian from SCTV, Candy’s complex personality was pivotal to his charm. Thomas noted that, while Candy often embodied a jovial persona, he also experienced moments of insecurity and conflict. Myers, who spoke from Berkeley, California, said, “Everyone can say platitudes about somebody… But how? What was he like? And was he ever in a bad mood?” His findings reveal that Candy faced significant pressures and insecurities, particularly related to his size and public image.

Intimate Interviews and Reflections

The biography includes interviews with notable figures such as Tom Hanks, Catherine O’Hara, and Martin Short. Many share stories that highlight Candy’s kindness and generosity, showcasing a man who was often as endearing off-screen as he was in his comedic roles. However, it also uncovers the darker aspects of his experiences, such as the pain he felt from fat jokes and size-shaming remarks made by the media.

One particularly troubling memory for Candy involved a scene in “Stripes”, directed by Ivan Reitman, where he was coerced into wrestling in mud with scantily clad women. Thomas recalls that Candy “felt horrible” about this exploitative moment, which has been criticized for its sexist undertones. Reitman, who passed away in 2022, later expressed regret that it took time to convince Candy to participate in that scene.

Candy’s struggles extended beyond the screen. Myers recounts incidents of binge drinking and anxiety that plagued the comedian, particularly during the production of his final film, shot in Mexico. Tragically, Candy died of a heart attack in 1994 while on set, a loss that Myers feels was compounded by the circumstances surrounding his work commitments.

A Lasting Legacy

Despite these struggles, Candy’s impact on comedy remains significant. Myers notes that his influence can be seen in the work of contemporary comedians, including Conan O’Brien and Judd Apatow. He cites a pivotal moment when Candy encouraged his own brother, Mike Myers, to pursue comedy workshops with Second City, which ultimately shaped his career.

Interestingly, the biography does not include insights from Candy’s widow, Rose Candy, or their children, Jennifer and Chris. Myers indicated that they are working on their own project, which may have been the documentary “John Candy: I Like Me,” recently premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. This documentary, produced by Ryan Reynolds and directed by Colin Hanks, is set to release on Prime Video shortly after Myers’ book.

The timing of these releases coincides with what would have been Candy’s 75th birthday on October 31. Myers believes this surge of interest reflects a cultural moment ripe for revisiting Candy’s legacy, stating, “The zeitgeist is telling us something. It’s time to look at John Candy.”

“John Candy: A Life in Comedy” is scheduled for release on October 10, 2025, offering fans a comprehensive view of a man whose life was as multifaceted as his performances. The biography promises to shed light on the complexities of Candy’s character, ensuring that his legacy continues to resonate with audiences around the world.