Dan Aykroyd Biography

Short Summary

Dan Aykroyd is a renowned Canadian actor, comedian, writer, and producer, widely recognized for his contributions to comedy and film. He gained fame as a cast member of "Saturday Night Live" and co-created the iconic film "Ghostbusters." Aykroyd's dynamic career spans over four decades, during which he has been involved in numerous successful projects in both television and film. His work has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, making him a celebrated figure in popular culture.

Early Life & Education

Born Daniel Edward Aykroyd on July 1, 1952, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, he was the son of Lorraine Hélène and Samuel Cuthbert Peter Hugh Aykroyd. His father was a civil engineer and a policy advisor to Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Aykroyd was raised in a spiritually diverse household, which influenced his later interests in the supernatural. He attended St. Pius X and St. Patrick's High Schools before enrolling at Carleton University, where he studied criminology and sociology. Although he left before completing his degree, his time at university was marked by a burgeoning interest in performing arts and comedy.

Career Highlights

Aykroyd's career took off when he joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" in 1975, where his comedic talent shone brightly. He became known for his unique characters and impersonations, contributing significantly to the show's early success. In 1984, he co-wrote and starred in "Ghostbusters," a film that became a cultural phenomenon and solidified his status as a major Hollywood figure. Other notable works include "The Blues Brothers," "Trading Places," and "Driving Miss Daisy," showcasing his versatility as both a comedic and dramatic actor.

Major Achievements

Co-created and starred in "Ghostbusters," a landmark in comedy and science fiction cinema.
Won an Emmy Award as a writer for "Saturday Night Live" in 1977.
Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor in "Driving Miss Daisy" (1989).
Co-created the band The Blues Brothers, which achieved significant musical and commercial success.

Famous Quotes

"We must come to the point where we realize the concept of race is a false one. There is only one race, the human race."
"You look at the floor and see the floor. I look at the floor and see molecules."

Interesting Facts

He has a strong interest in the paranormal and co-founded the Mutual UFO Network.
Aykroyd is a co-founder of the House of Blues chain of music venues.
He is a reserve officer for the police department in Harahan, Louisiana.
His great-grandfather was a mystic who inspired his interest in the supernatural.
Aykroyd has a passion for blues music and plays several instruments.

Legacy / Influence

Dan Aykroyd has left an indelible mark on comedy and film, with his work influencing generations of comedians and filmmakers. His ability to blend humor with the supernatural has paved the way for a unique genre in cinema. He remains a beloved figure, celebrated for his contributions to "Saturday Night Live" and his role in creating some of the most memorable films in comedy history.