John Candy: A Life in Comedy by Paul Myers (Interview) #140

Explore the new John Candy biography with author Paul Myers. Discover powerful stories of the beloved comedian's true character, integrity, and unforgettable kindness.Episode Resources:Get your copy of "John Candy: A Life in Comedy" by Paul MyersConnect with Paul MyersIn this definitive John Candy biography deep dive, author Paul Myers reveals the untold stories behind one of cinema's most beloved figures. While we all know John Candy for his iconic roles in movies like Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, The Great Outdoors, and Cool Runnings, what was the man behind the laughter truly like? This conversation explores the incredible highs and heartbreaking lows of his life, from his early days in comedy to the secret pain he carried.Paul Myers, author of "John Candy: A Life in Comedy," shares intimate details sourced from those who knew him best. This episode unpacks the complex and admirable John Candy character, a man who stood up for pay equity for his female co-stars on SCTV and famously gave his own star trailer to screen legend Maureen O'Hara on the set of Only the Lonely. We explore his creative genius, tracing his journey from the legendary stages of Second City Toronto, where he honed his improv skills and developed characters like Yosh Shmenge, to his iconic status in Hollywood. The conversation also delves into the complex relationship between SCTV and Saturday Night Live, and how a single piece of advice from Candy inspired a young Mike Myers to pursue comedy.This comprehensive interview with Paul Myers, author and comedy historian, doesn't shy away from the difficult moments. Discover the story behind Candy's infamous conflict on the set of Stripes over the demeaning mud wrestling scene, a moment that highlighted his career-long struggle with body-shaming. We also explore the immense pressure he was under during his time as a co-owner of the John Candy Toronto Argonauts, a dream that ended in heartbreak following a fraud scandal. Finally, learn about the unprecedented and moving tribute from the LAPD, who shut down the 405 freeway for his funeral procession. From his most celebrated John Candy movies to the private battles he faced, this episode paints a complete picture of a comedic genius and a profoundly decent human being, based on the research from this essential John Candy biography.About Our Guest:Paul Myers is an author, musician, and journalist with a deep connection to the world of comedy. As the brother of comedian Mike Myers, he grew up surrounded by the industry and brings a unique, respectful perspective to his work. In this interview, he discusses the meticulous two-year process of interviewing legends like Dan Aykroyd and Martin Short for his definitive John Candy biography, "John Candy: A Life in Comedy."Timestamps:(0:00) Why John Candy's Story Still Matters(2:17) Crafting the Biography & The John Candy Family Documentary(5:38) How John Candy's Advice Launched Mike Myers' Career(14:58) The Rise of Second City Toronto & SCTV(19:18) The Origin of the Hilarious Shmenge Brothers(22:07) Fighting for Equity: John Candy’s Stand Against SCTV Producers(24:21) A Noble Act: The Story of John Candy & Maureen O'Hara's Trailer(28:35) The "I Like Me" Scene: Analyzing Planes, Trains & Automobiles(35:51) The Conflict on 'Stripes': Why John Candy Hated the Mud Wrestling Scene(42:56) Johnny Toronto: The Dream and Heartbreak of Owning the Argonauts(47:52) A Final Farewell: The Unprecedented 405 Freeway Tribute