John Candy's Kindness Inspired Mike Myers' Comedy Career

In March 1994, Paul Myers was touring Canada with his alt-rock band The Gravelberrys when he heard the devastating news about the passing of beloved comedian John Candy. Myers, who is now based in California, recalls the moment he learned of Candy's death while in a cafe in Whistler, B.C., saying it was a "real community moment" as everyone in the cafe reacted with shock and sadness.

While Myers does not delve into this personal anecdote in his new biography on Candy, he does share the story of how the late comedian had a profound impact on his younger brother, Mike Myers, who was an aspiring comic in the early 1980s. When Mike sought Candy's advice, the SCTV star took the time to provide him with details on the Second City workshops he should take, a gesture that arguably set Mike Myers on the path to his own successful comedy career.

Paul, Mike, and their older brother Peter were all fans of sketch comedy growing up, with a particular fondness for the Canadian humor of SCTV, which launched Candy to stardom in the 1970s. Paul Myers believes Candy should be considered an "honorary member" of their family for his kindness and mentorship towards Mike. The biographer's research revealed that Candy's generosity and compassion towards others were not unusual, as he was known for always taking care of the people around him.