Jim Belushi Reflects on Watching His Brother John in ‘Blues Brothers’ Role
Jim Belushi recently shared a cherished memory from his early Hollywood days, highlighting his late brother John Belushi’s rise in comedy and music. John emerged as a comedy star as a founding member of the original Saturday Night Live cast in 1975.
Creation and Rise of The Blues Brothers
Alongside co-star Dan Aykroyd, John helped develop The Blues Brothers, a project that grew from an SNL sketch into a full blues and soul music act. Their first appearance as The Blues Brothers on SNL was in April 1978, followed by expanding the act into a complete band.
By September 1978, they opened for Steve Martin during his shows at the Universal Amphitheater in Los Angeles.
Jim’s Favorite Moment
“I’ll tell you what I loved: I loved going to the Universal Amphitheater when they came to LA and they opened for Steve Martin. And John was so, so magnificent. I loved that moment, to see my brother just hit the top of his chart.”
Jim, aged 71, shared this during the premiere of his upcoming film Song Sung Blue at AFI Fest in Hollywood.
Tragic Loss and Legacy
John Belushi passed away two years later on March 5, 1982, from a suspected drug overdose. After his brother’s death, Jim took over John’s role as Zee Blues, performing alongside Aykroyd’s Elwood Blues at Aykroyd’s request.
Summary
Jim Belushi fondly recalls his brother John’s iconic Blues Brothers era and carried on his legacy after John’s untimely death.
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