Colin Hanks Describes Questions on John Candy’s Weight in Interviews as Heartbreaking
Colin Hanks has recently opened up about the heartbreak associated with how comedian John Candy was treated during his interviews. In a discussion on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast, Hanks highlighted the uncomfortable nature of the questions Candy faced regarding his weight. He described the experience as “soul-crushing” and reflective of a time when such inquiries were common.
Heartbreaking Interviews: John Candy’s Weight
Hanks, who is directing the documentary “John Candy: I Like Me,” emphasized the insensitivity of these questions. He pointed out that interviewers would often make Candy feel uncomfortable, knowing they would inquire about his weight. “It was heartbreaking to see how uncomfortable he was,” Hanks noted. He stated that this kind of questioning “would not fly in this day and age.”
Exploring Candy’s Legacy in Film
The documentary, co-produced by Ryan Reynolds, delves into the life and struggles of John Candy, who passed away from a heart attack at the age of 43. The film features personal testimonials from notable figures such as Bill Murray and Steve Martin, as well as from Candy’s children, Jennifer and Chris Candy, who are also producing the film.
- John Candy died in 1994 at the age of 43.
- His final role was in the film “Wagons East!” released five months posthumously.
- Candy’s career included iconic roles in movies like “Splash” and “Uncle Buck.”
- He was a key figure on “SCTV” from 1976 to 1984.
In his interviews, Hanks praised Candy for his composure in the face of insensitive inquiries. He remarked on how Candy had every right to respond angrily but chose to remain calm. “That speaks to the pressures he faced, which we explore in the documentary,” Hanks added.
Candy’s Struggles with Anxiety
The documentary also sheds light on Candy’s struggles with anxiety. His son Chris Candy remarked that during his father’s final years, he grappled with crippling anxiety but seldom spoke of it. “He was taking better care of himself,” Chris noted, emphasizing the effort his father made to improve his well-being.
Chris shared insights into his father’s eating habits, revealing that Candy sometimes avoided eating in public due to anxiety over paparazzi. This unhealthy routine often left Candy feeling nervous about eating around others.
Conclusion
The life and career of John Candy remain an enduring legacy in comedy. Colin Hanks’s documentary offers a heartfelt tribute to an iconic figure whose experiences, including the struggles with weight and anxiety, are relevant today. It explores not only his triumphs but also the pressures he faced in the public eye.
