John Belushi Biography

Fast Facts

• An annual performing scholarship was named in his honor by his alma mater the College of DuPage
• Was posthumously honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2004
• Got his big break in comedy when the joined The Second City troupe in 1971
• Quote: "Some comedians love their characters․ I don't fall in love with mine․ In fact, I get tired of them very fast․ You have to be willing to throw it all away․"
• Quote: "(On growing up in Chicago) "All we cared about was rock'n'roll and staying out of the Army․""
• Known for his long, detailed explanations and rants
• Often played expressive characters who are intense or volatile
• Was replaced by James Woods in "Once Upon a Time in America" since he died before production on the film could take place
• Would tell people he was of Greek and Italian descent because his real ancestral land Albania was under communism during his youth
• Would judge the character of new acquaintances by asking to borrow $20 from them just to see their reactions