Interview: Comedian John Candy’s Daughter on New Documentary
John Candy's Endearing Characters
Many of John Candy’s most beloved characters have a warmth that makes viewers feel like he was their own father. His daughter suggests,
“I think he kind of was recreating the relationship that he might not have had with his dad, or he wished he would have had with his dad.”
Favorite Moments from John Candy
Fans have their own favorite Candy moments, from films like Spaceballs, Stripes, to Uncle Buck. Candy’s screen presence shines through his charisma, humor, and genuine heart.
His daughter recalls watching Home Alone (1990) as a child, laughing at Candy’s character Gus Polinski, who humorously tells how he accidentally left his son in a funeral parlor while trying to connect with Kate McCallister (Catherine O’Hara). Though Candy’s screen time is brief, he remains memorable amid the film’s Christmas chaos.
Unforgettable Role in Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
Her personal favorite is Candy’s role as Del Griffith in Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987). This performance blends hilarious jokes with moments of vulnerability and kindness. Opposite Steve Martin’s uptight Neal Page, Candy captures what Martin describes in the new documentary as,
“annoying better than anyone.”
Yet despite the annoyance, Del becomes a deeply lovable character by the end.
The Documentary: John Candy: I Like Me
Directed by Colin Hanks, the documentary explores Candy’s upbringing, his career in acting, and the mental health challenges he faced throughout his life.
Summary: This documentary reveals the heartfelt legacy of John Candy through the eyes of his daughter, celebrating his charm, humor, and personal struggles with authenticity.