John Candy lived to make us feel better
The Man Behind the Laughs
Last Christmas, I found myself suddenly craving a rewatch of "Home Alone." It’s a holiday tradition for many, but I was surprised to realize I’d only ever experienced this classic once before. So, I dove back into the world of the McCallister family, ready for a dose of that iconic ’90s aesthetic—the phthalo green walls, the booby traps, and the sheer chaos of a holiday gone wonderfully wrong.
As I watched Kevin’s journey unfold, I found myself thinking about John Candy, the heart of so many beloved films. His characters weren’t just funny—they were anchors of warmth in chaotic worlds. Whether he was the lovable thief in "Home Alone" or the long-suffering Del Griffith in "Planes, Trains and Automobiles," Candy had an uncanny ability to make us feel seen.
More Than Just Laughs
In the new book "I Like Me," friends, family, and colleagues share what many of us sensed but rarely saw: the profound compassion behind the humor. Director John Hughes once said, "John had a gift for making everyone feel important." This collection of memories reveals a man who remembered birthdays, sent handwritten notes, and quietly supported those around him.
"He’d call just to check in, even when he was filming overseas," shares longtime friend Eugene Levy. "That was John—making sure no one felt alone." Such gestures, small yet meaningful, shaped the way audiences connected with him on screen. His characters felt authentic because they were drawn from a place of genuine humanity.
Legacy of Kindness
The book paints a picture of Candy not as a larger-than-life star, but as someone who found joy in others’ happiness. His daughter Jennifer recalls how he’d visit children’s hospitals in full costume, never breaking character even when kids were too scared to approach. "He’d become a pirate or an alien—whatever it took to make them smile."
In an industry often criticized for its superficiality, Candy’s humility stands out. Fellow comedian Martin Short remembers, "He never talked about himself. He’d ask about your kids, your health—real stuff. He made you matter."
Why It Matters Now
In our fragmented digital age, Candy’s warmth feels both nostalgic and necessary. "I Like Me" arrives at a time when many crave authentic connections. The book’s contributors don’t just celebrate a comedian—they celebrate the human capacity for kindness.
As we navigate increasingly polarized times, perhaps we need John Candy’s spirit more than ever. His legacy reminds us that laughter and compassion aren’t opposites—they’re two sides of the same coin. The best humor comes from understanding the shared struggles of being human, and Candy mastered that art.
For those who grew up with his films, "I Like Me" is a comforting return to an era when comedy felt less like a product and more like a conversation. It’s a reminder that behind every great performance was an even greater person—a man who truly believed in making others feel better.
For more stories about John Candy’s life and legacy, visit the original reporting at Salon.