Discover the real John Candy: his life, laughter, and legacy revealed in a heartfelt new documentary.
John Candy, the Canadian comedian whose warmth and humor captivated audiences for decades, is now the focus of a documentary that promises to reveal the man behind the laughter. With personal stories, never-before-seen footage, and reflections from friends and family, "John Candy: I Like Me" invites viewers to discover a side of the legend few ever knew.
The Real John Candy Documentary
Directed by Colin Hanks and produced by Ryan Reynolds, the documentary streams on Prime Video October 10, 2025, and offers a deeply personal look at Candy’s life on and off screen. It explores not only his iconic performances but also his roles as a son, husband, father, and friend, a man driven to bring joy to others while confronting personal challenges and the pressures of Hollywood.
The trailer opens with a heartfelt tribute from Candy’s Stripes co-star Bill Murray, who tearfully says, “I could tell you what was right about John Candy, or what was wrong. But he was my friend… And I don’t wanna cry, but when you see him, when you see his face…” Other legendary collaborators featured in the film include Steve Martin, Catherine O’Hara, Dan Aykroyd, Martin Short, Mel Brooks, and even Tom Hanks, who worked with Candy on films in the 1980s.
The Heart Behind John Candy
Hanks and Reynolds, both lifelong fans, emphasize that Candy was more than a brilliant actor. “People loved his everyman qualities, but they didn’t know how relatable John really was. He wasn’t just a great actor; he was an even better person,” they said. The documentary showcases never-before-seen home videos and intimate access to Candy’s family, providing a vivid picture of his life from his Toronto upbringing to his rise in Hollywood.
"John Candy: I Like Me" highlights Candy’s memorable performances in 1980s classics such as Stripes (1981), National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983), Spaceballs (1987), and the timeless Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987). Beyond the laughter, the film addresses the challenges Candy faced behind the scenes, including the personal pressures of fame and the emotional toll of constantly trying to bring joy to others.
Remembering John Candy’s Life Fully
Co-produced by Candy’s wife Rosemary Margaret Hobor and their children, Christopher Candy and Jennifer Candy-Sullivan, the documentary provides an intimate look at the man whose kindness, humor, and humanity made him unforgettable.
Reynolds has shared that the project, developed through his company Maximum Effort alongside Hanks, is designed to bring both laughter and tears to audiences, celebrating the full, complex life of a comedic legend.
Tragically, Candy passed away at the age of 43 in 1994, but "John Candy: I Like Me" ensures that his spirit, joy, and unforgettable presence continue to resonate with fans old and new alike.
"John Candy: I Like Me" streams October 10 on Prime Video.